Journal Entry 1 by crimson-tide from Balingup, Western Australia Australia on Saturday, February 16, 2008

Duplicate copy.

From School Library Journal:
"Olivia, the narrator of this story, was born to an American mother and a Chinese father. She meets her 18-year-old Chinese half sister, Kwan, for the first time shortly after their father's death. Kwan adores "Libby-ah" and tries to introduce her to her Chinese heritage through stories and memories. Olivia is embarrassed by her sibling, but finds as she matures that she has inadvertently absorbed much about Chinese superstitions, spirits, and reincarnation. Olivia explains, "My sister Kwan believes she has Yin eyes. She sees those who have died and now dwell in the World of Yin..." Now in her mid-30s, Olivia, a photographer, is still seeking a meaningful life. The climax of the story comes when she and her estranged husband Simeon, a writer, go to China on assignment with Kwan as the interpreter. In the village in which she grew up, Kwan returns to the world of Yin, her mission completed. Olivia finally learns what Kwan was trying to show her: "If people we love die, then they are lost only to our ordinary senses. If we remember, we can find them anytime with our hundred secret senses." The meshing of the contemporary story of Olivia and the tales Kwan tells of her past life in late-19th century China may confuse some readers. Although this story is different from Tan's previous novels because of the supernatural twist, there are still some familiar elements." 

Journal Entry 2 by crimson-tide from Balingup, Western Australia Australia on Wednesday, March 05, 2008

Reserved for Round 7 of the OZ VBB.
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Chosen by livrecache - posted Monday 10th. 

Journal Entry 3 by livrecache from Hobart, Tasmania Australia on Thursday, March 20, 2008

I have read this, but many moons ago. I think it completes my collection of Amy Tan's work, but for the moment it'll be on my towering TBR pile. Oh, yes, I do remember it. It's a wonderful story that I shall enjoy re-visiting one day soon.