This novel is set in 1957 China under the rule of Chairman Mao. Tensions are rising as the people are not happy with their new life under the rule of a communist party. Chairman Mao has decided to open the government up to criticism and suggestions from the people, many intellectuals fear this is a trick aimed at locating any resistors to the new government power.
In walk our new characters. There is Kai Ying (a herbalist), her husband Sheng (a teacher) and their six-year-old son, Tao. The family lives with Sheng's father, Wei, a retired college professor. Although Sheng has promised Kai Ying he will not do anything to harm his family a letter is written to Chairman Mao criticizing the communist party. Sheng is then arrested and sent to be "reeducated" for an indefinite period of time.
A Hundred Flowers follows the journey of this torn family trying to survive after the head male of the household is suddenly ripped away from them. Kai Ying must focus on her work and patients in order to keep money flowing in. Wei is struggling with a heavy secret that is tearing him apart. Tao is trying to find a way to connect with his absent father. Once again Gail Tsukiyama has shown her knack for making a scene come alive. She has such a great way with words. Although I did enjoy this novel it is my least favorite of the three books I have read by Tsukiyama. Good story but easy to put down and pick up again at a later time.
Quote:
“Wei cleared his throat and said, “Have you heard the saying `The wise adapt themselves to circumstances, as water molds itself to the pitcher’? It seems I’ve been the pitcher most of my life. I’ve forgotten how to be fluid. It feels as if I’m finally learning now,” he said.”
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