Lady Tan’s Circle of Women
By Lisa See
Adult Fiction
Good historical fiction can transport you to another culture and time with the turn of a page, and Lisa See’s Lady Tan’s Circle of Women did just that. I was captivated by how easily See submerges us into the setting and ethos of Ancient China. Our main character is Tan Yunxian, a bold girl from the Ming dynasty and raised by her grandparents. Though she is born into an elite family of tradition, Yunxian’s grandmother teaches her to break these barriers and become more than what tradition has defined as her destiny. Going against her culture’s customs, Yunxian learns to practice medicine and treat women’s illnesses, including pregnancy and birth. She studies alongside a young midwife-in-training, Meiling, who eventually becomes her confidant. The story follows Yunxian and Meiling’s complicated but meaningful friendship as they help other women, children, and each other. Lisa See examines the powerful significance behind breaking free of traditions and becoming more than the role assigned to you. She gives us a fascinating and inspiring story of life in Ancient China and a woman’s victory over the boundaries placed in front of her.
Carrie Pung, MLIS, MA
Branch Head, Hoyt Library
