This book was so forgettable to me that after finishing it on Monday, I realized that I had neglected to enter it into Goodreads and when I opened up the App to do so, couldn't remember what I had read, who the author was, or anything about the book. When I read the book, I found I was disappointed in the writing, which seemed to lack the beauty that others have described in See's other novels. I was repeatedly annoyed by phrases like, "and whatever else." I can't remember if that was the exact phrase, but there were multiple times when See appeared to put a catch-all in her writing so as not to have to finish the thought. I was annoyed with the characters and their behavior - especially Joy and Pearl, for rashly jumping into the sea of Communist China without any thought about what they were doing or plans for how they might leave again. I can excuse this thoughtlessness, though, because they are fictional characters. However, I don't care to read anything more about them. I don't know how true any of the depictions are of China under Communist rule, being woefully ignorant of the entire situation. So I cannot say if that part of it was even well-done or not. All in all, it wasn't horrible, but I know that it will not stay with me. In fact, only two days later, it hadn't. I enjoyed this book more than the first novel. The story is told in parts from Pearl, the mother, and Joy, the daughter. At times I wanted to kick Joy to make her see sense, but then I had to remember that she is young, and young people often make unwise decisions. The plot really moved along well and it had a good ending. There were some disturbing images in the book, especially when describing the suffering of the people during a horrific famine. Not for young readers!
What do You think about Dreams Of Joy (2011)?
Harrowing but fascinating story about life in China's farming communes in the days of Mao.
—kikka55
Very interesting. Gives you a view of other countries culture.
—vanessa1rose
Great sequel to Shanghai Girls. Really enjoyed it.
—redsoxcheer09
I just wish I had read the first book.
—belusierra
