Book Review: Spring Moon

Author: Bette Bao Lord
Title: Spring Moon
Genre: Drama, Historical Fiction
Pages: 480
First Published: 1981
Where I Got It: On my shelf (Goodwill Book section)

"At a time of mystery and cruelty ... in an ancient land of breathtaking beauty and exotic surprise ... a courageous woman triumphs over her world's ultimate tragedy.

Behind the garden walls of the House of Chang, pampered daughter Spring Moon is born into luxury and privilege. But the tempests of change sweep her into a new world -- one of hardship, turmoil, and heartbreak, one that threatens to destroy her husband, her family, and her darkest secret love. Through a tumultuous lifetime, Spring Moon must cling to her honor, to the memory of a time gone by, and to a destiny, foretold at her birth, that has yet to be fulfilled"

This book has been sitting on my bookshelf for a LONG time. Nearly four years now...*bows head in shame* Finally I decided it was time to take this from my bookshelf and read it. 

It took me a while to finish this, but there was so much going on, my poor brain needed a rest. I will also admit at some spots it was rather dry. So yeah...it did take me some time to get through it. There was a lot going on and China went through many changes over such short amounts of time. It was a lot to take it, but it was interesting and I learned a lot more about the culture and the history of China. 

I really liked Spring Moon. She may have been born into luxury and privilege, but she easily adapted to the changes around her. She was a strong woman and I'm so glad the author made her so. I'm so glad she got to see her dream and her prophecy come true. It was nice and I really liked the epilogue. ^.^ It was bittersweet, but it was good.

Even though this was solely about Spring Moon, it followed the stories of many of her kin. It did get confusing sometimes, but again...I advise taking your time. Some of the names were very similar - Bold Talent, Noble Talent - so I would get confused at times. I did like the additional voices, but after a while it was too much. Too much that it heavily slowed down the story. 

In the end, this was worth the read. I did like it. Though some parts were dryer then toast under the hot sun and some a couple points had my mind in a swirl, it was good. I learned a lot more then history books taught me about the history of China. I enjoyed Spring Moon's story and that of her kin. I recommend this to those that like or want to know more about China. I shall stamp this with 2 stars. 

Favorite Character(s): Spring Moon
Not-so Favorite Character(s): Lustrous Jade

*CaroleRae*