The novel is a lyrical and fragmented exploration of identity, memory, and displacement, told through the eyes of a Chinese woman who emigrates to the United States. As she navigates her new life, the narrative delves into her past in China and her experiences in various Western countries, revealing the complex interplay between personal history and the broader historical forces at play. The protagonist's journey is marked by a search for belonging and understanding, as she grapples with the cultural and emotional crossings that define her existence. Through poetic prose, the book examines themes of alienation, the impact of war, and the quest for self amidst the tumult of the 20th century.

The 3463rd greatest book of all time