Books Like...
Monkey Bridge by Lan Cao is a semi-autobiographical novel that follows the story of Mai and her mother Thanh, Vietnamese immigrants adjusting to life in America after the Vietnam War. The book delves into themes of immigration, coming of age, mother-daughter relationships, and the struggle to balance Vietnamese heritage with American culture. Through flashbacks and real-time storytelling, the novel explores the trauma of war, generational differences, and the immigrant experience in the United States.
The plot revolves around Mai's journey to bring her grandfather, Baba Quan, from Vietnam to America to comfort her ailing mother. The narrative alternates between Mai and Thanh's perspectives, highlighting their struggles to assimilate into American society while holding onto their Vietnamese roots. The writing style blends ancient Vietnamese mythology with American pop culture, creating a poignant and evocative portrayal of the immigrant experience and the complexities of familial relationships.
If you liked Monkey Bridge, here are the top 3 books to read next:
- #1
Save:"The Good Earth" by Pearl S. Buck is a captivating novel that follows the life of the honest farmer Wang Lung and his selfless wife Olan in China during the last emperor's rule. The story spans generations, depicting the family's struggles, rises, and falls amidst famine, crime, and social obstacles. The narrative delves into themes of hard work, determination, love, greed, and the cyclical nature of life, offering a rich portrayal of Chinese village life and the societal changes occurring at that time.
The book is written in a simple yet profound style that draws readers into the world of Wang Lung and his family, showcasing the complexities of human relationships, ambitions, and moral dilemmas. Through vivid descriptions and compelling storytelling, Pearl S. Buck provides a deep insight into Chinese culture, traditions, and the universal struggles of individuals striving for a better life amidst adversity and societal pressures.
IT WAS WANG LUNG’S marriage day. At first, opening his eyes in the blackness of the curtains about his bed, he could not think why the dawn seemed different from any other. The house was still except ... - #2
Save:Pachinko by Min Jin Lee is a multi-generational family saga that follows a Korean family's struggles and hardships from the early 20th century in Korea to their migration to Japan and eventually the United States. The story delves into the historical context of the Japanese occupation of Korea, discrimination against Koreans in Japan, and the challenges faced by the family through wars, poverty, and cultural clashes. The narrative spans several generations, portraying the characters' resilience, sacrifices, and the impact of world events on their lives. The writing style is straightforward, with a focus on character development and exploring themes of identity, belonging, and survival.
At the turn of the century, an aging fisherman and his wife decided to take in lodgers for extra money. Both were born and raised in the fishing village of Yeongdo—a five-mile-wide islet beside the po... - #3
Save:The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is a poignant tale that follows the lives of two boys, Amir and Hassan, who grow up in war-torn Afghanistan. The narrative explores themes of friendship, loyalty, betrayal, redemption, and the impact of historical events on personal lives. The story delves into the struggles of immigrant life, the complexities of cultural identity, and the enduring consequences of past actions. Through vivid storytelling, the author provides insight into Afghan culture and societal issues, offering a compelling portrayal of human emotions and relationships.
The writing style in The Kite Runner is described as beautiful, raw, and emotional, with each word carrying deep meaning. The author skillfully weaves together a narrative that immerses readers in the setting of Afghanistan, capturing the country's beauty, conflicts, and people with evocative prose. The novel presents a gripping and dramatic exploration of the characters' lives, highlighting the dichotomy between good and evil, love and betrayal, and the quest for redemption amidst personal and societal turmoil.
I became what I am today at the age of twelve, on a frigid overcast day in the winter of 1975. I remember the precise moment, crouching behind a crumbling mud wall, peeking into the alley near the fro...
