Archive for the ‘Buck’ Category

The Time is Noon

Wednesday, August 22nd, 2007

By Pearl S. Buck

-pgs: 314

An interesting story about the connections and relationships we develop with our family. In particular, this story focuses on the relationships one perceives as a child and how those change as one becomes an adult. The story was well written and well developed. The author really took the time to create three dimensional characters. However, there is not much action in the story and this could be a downside to certain readers. Instead, there is a lot of internal events that occur in this story. I found it was difficult to read for this reason; however, I was pleased that I spent my time reading such a deep book. If you would like to put in the time, then I would definitely recommend it.

Mandala

Wednesday, August 22nd, 2007

By Pearl S. Buck

-pgs: 376

 

The story of the clashing of cultures and the changing of traditions set in India. The story centers around Maharana and his family. Times have changed and India will no longer be supporting his family as they once did. As a Prince who has never had to worry about money now it is his main concern. He decides to create a luxury hotel for the rich. In addition, his only son is going off to war against the Chinese. Throw in to this mix, the religious beliefs of the Indians and a young American girl who is attempting to find herself and you have the makings of an interesting story. The plot of the story is compelling especially when presented in a culture that believes in arrange marriages and not true love. I found the story to be well written. However, it is not comparable to the excellence of The Good Earth. The tale is quick to read and amusing. It does cause some reflections but is not comparable to the other novel.

 

 

The Good Earth

Wednesday, August 8th, 2007

By Pearl S. Buck

-pgs: 357

The story marks the life of one young China man prior to the revolution. You see the evolution of his family from dirt poor to the richest in the town. You also see the evolution of the family from hardworking gentle people to lazy, stubborn people as the next generation gets older. This story raises a lot of interesting questions about ties with relatives, treatment of the family members, marriage and its purpose, the treatment of women and children, etc. A very well written book that reveals a lot about the Chinese culture during this time period.