Snow Flower and the Secret Fan pdf

"Snow Flower and the Secret Fan" by Lisa See is a historical novel set in 19th-century China, exploring the deep friendship between two girls, Lily and Snow Flower, who are bound together as laotong, or "old sames," a lifelong emotional and spiritual bond between women. Their connection is maintained through a secret written language called nu shu, used by women to communicate in a patriarchal society where they were largely silenced.

As the story unfolds, the novel portrays the difficult lives of women in that era, highlighting the painful practice of foot-binding, the constraints of Confucian values, and the limited opportunities for women. Despite the hardships, Lily and Snow Flower share their hopes, dreams, and struggles through their secret fan messages, supporting each other emotionally.

However, misunderstandings and societal pressures eventually test their bond, leading to heartache and regret. Through their friendship, the novel explores themes of love, loyalty, betrayal, and the roles of women in traditional Chinese culture. "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan" is a powerful and poignant tale of female friendship and resilience in the face of oppression.