by Jennie Liu
Why does Yun decide to help Yong sell Chun? How does she justify this decision to herself? What are her alternatives and why does she dismiss them?
When Yun leaves with Yong and Chun, she reflects, “People have often let me know that I’m a worthless person, but now I feel I’m a terrible one.” Why does she feel this way? Do you agree? Why or why not?
What are Ming’s motivations? In what ways has his behavior toward Luli throughout the novel been manipulative or controlling? What red flags has Luli noticed, and what has she missed?
After Yun and Yong leave with Chun, how does Luli feel about Yun’s actions? What eventually moves Luli to forgive Yun for her actions?
What do you think Chun’s life will be like? Do you think she will be better off than Luli, Yun, and Yong were? Why or why not?
At the end of the novel, what do you think the characters would change about their situations? How do you think their experiences in the novel will influence their choices in the future?
About the Author
Jennie Liu is the daughter of Chinese immigrants. Having been brought up with an ear to two cultures, she has been fascinated by the attitudes, social policies, and changes in China each time she visits. She lives in North Carolina with her husband and two boys. Follow her at jennieliuwrites.com or on Twitter @starnesliu.
