Loved the character development, main character really reminded me of myself. Felt like at times it was a bit too predictable and a bit cliche, but for its genre it was well done!I absolutely adored the fluid integration of Chinese culture and superstitions, as well as the way Jean Kwok painted Latin dancing with her words. Like the main character, I come from a traditional family with a traditional father. I admired her newly-found strength and self-identity! Although a part of me felt that the ending lacked detail and was a bit rushed, I think it ended off perfectly. Charlie Wong has a secret life. Formerly a dishwasher in a noodle restaurant, she takes a job in a dance studio and becomes entranced by the life and possibilities it provides. It also helps her feel connected with her dead mother, a former Beijing ballet dancer. However, she must keep this new life hidden from her father and his traditional ways of thinking while also facing growing concerns about her younger sister’s health. I enjoyed the romance in the story and the setting, especially since I used to take dance classes. It made me want to go back! I also liked seeing the conflicting obligations of an immigrant’s child, how they have to balance two different cultures and worlds. Favorite quotes: “I began to see beauty as something that could be unleashed from within a person rather than a set of physical features like a perfect nose or big eyes.” “Nothing can teach you something so well as needing to pass that knowledge on to someone else.”
What do You think about Dans Met Mij (2000)?
Definitely 3.5 stars - I wish Goodreads had half-stars. :)
—Qris
A delightful light read. A Cinderella story.
—liger24
