Book Review: Amy Tan’s “The Joy Luck Club“

A fantastic book about family, tradition, culture, tragedy, understanding, and endurance.

***SPOILERS***

Each of the four mothers of the club has such a powerful story to tell. There was never a dull moment reading about the tribulations each one endured in times and societies where women didn’t have much of a say in anything. The mothers faced many hardships such as being forced into marriage; living in a household of many wives and concubines; leaving behind family members. It’s a miracle how these four individuals found each other and gained better lives in the states.

The daughters also have good stories to tell, trying to better understand their parents, and deal with their own lives. If only the daughters knew all the things their mothers went through, perhaps they would reconsider that maybe their own lives and predicaments aren’t as bad as they think. And that they have the choices to overcome them. I believe that with every new generation there is more opportunity.

As sons and daughters, we think that our parents don’t understand what we are going through. But often the parent does understand because maybe they themself have endured similar situations.

Every parent wants or should want what is best for their child. However, the parents ends up not considering the child’s dreams or interests, which can lead to resentment. Teach and guide your child the best way you know how, but as they grow they may not want to do what you did or try to live up to your fantasies.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️