“I feel absolutely no need to submit my qualifications, as either writer or reader, before expressing my immense satisfaction in reading this book. I actually went to an appointment with a copy of "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan" and my doctor wholeheartedly recommended "The Good Earth." I'm glad she did. At moments I hated Wang Lung, but then I would suddenly love him again as he redeemed himself. I worried for the family and mourned when O-lan, the character I felt was the most powerful, finally died. The symbolism (the train or the pamphlets that illustrated a crucified Christ and frightened Wang Lung) which hinted of the influence of western culture upon the east was subtle enough to be a graceful component while still successfully making a valid and important contribution to the overall story. I especially love the continuous reference to the earth and it's relevance, or lack thereof, to the characters within the story. The earth itself seems to be a character in its own right that forms the story and gives us that constant point of reference as the symbol and mainstay of the entire book.”
posted 3 weeks ago