China in the 1970s was not a particularly joyous place. At least not for the parents of Gu Shan who begin the day (and the novel) girding themselves for her execution. I decide to read this book because it and the author (Yiyun Li) have been given good reviews. There are substories within the main story - a cast of odd characters including an unfortunate 12 year old girl who when in utero, was the recipient of a brutal beating by Gu Shan (a political dissenter).
Read MoreSometimes in opening statement, I will "be" anything from an inanimate object to a character in the case. The main question I hear is - how can you do that without seeming "too over the top?"
Read MoreAt the last minute the sun makes an appearance so I run out the doors of the Davenport Hotel and head towards the river. Spokane has the wonderful “Centennial Trail” that winds its way from the city through Gonzaga to the out and beyond. As I jog into the country (well, it is country-like in places) I feel like little red riding hood venturing into the forest with all its little creatures.
Read MoreI spend more time in my office (awake) than any other room in the world. I have two computers, one of which is currently playing '70s funk music. There is cool artwork on the walls and I will find myself fixating on different colors or shapes throughout the day. I have no paper files hogging space so my few books can breath alongside pictures of my girls and Ed.
Read More
