Book Review: The Moon Goddess’s Smile by Catherine C. Wu
The Moon Goddess’s Smile by Catherine C. Wu is a compelling narrative that intricately weaves together themes of cultural identity, family dynamics, and historical events in 20th-century China. The story centers around Mei, a young woman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery, grappling with her dual heritage and the expectations of her family.
The novel opens with a vivid portrayal of Mei’s experiences, as she reflects on her family’s legacy and the impact of historical events on their lives. As noted by Erica Ball in the Independent Book Review, Wu “deftly interweaves ancient legend, myth, and folktale with the real historical events that shaped China”. This blend of fiction and history allows readers to engage with significant moments, such as the Japanese invasion of Nanjing and the Tiananmen Square massacre, through the lens of Mei’s personal experiences.
Throughout the narrative, Wu’s writing is characterized by its emotional depth and humor. Lana McAra, an award-winning author, praises Wu’s “delightful style with laugh-out-loud surprises and delicious irony,” indicating that readers will be captivated from the very first word. The story also explores the complexities of family relationships, particularly between Mei and her grandfather, who provides wisdom and encouragement as she navigates her identity.
As Mei confronts the cultural clashes between her Chinese heritage and her life in America, she reflects on the broader implications of these experiences. Patricia Daly-Lipe, PhD, highlights that the novel “guides the reader through a journey of cultural clashes” and emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s roots. This exploration of identity is not only personal but also resonates with the collective experiences of many immigrants.
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The emotional weight of the story is further underscored by moments of loss and longing, as Mei grapples with her family’s past and the changes in her homeland. The narrative captures the essence of nostalgia and the bittersweet nature of memory, as seen in Mei’s reflections on her grandmother’s pride in her achievements.
In conclusion, The Moon Goddess’s Smile is a beautifully crafted tale that invites readers to reflect on their own cultural identities while immersing them in a rich historical context. With its compelling characters and thought-provoking themes, this novel is a must-read for anyone interested in the immigrant experience and the complexities of family heritage.
About the Author Catherine Wu
Like the protagonist in her debut novel, The Moon Goddess’s Smile, Catherine C. Wu spent her formative years in China before coming to New York City as a graduate student. After a career in biomedical research and podiatry practice, she followed her heart to pursue her dream and became a storyteller. She’s honed her fiction-writing skills at Boston’s Grubstreet to tell this unique story, a labor of love.
Nowadays, she lives with her husband in Jacksonville, FL If she isn’t taming the sword ferns and pennyworts in her weedy garden, you will most likely find her in her kitchen, experimenting with impossible flavor combinations or researching her dream family vacation in southern Europe.
