Pavilion of Women
Pavilion of Women
Book Brief
316
Novel • Fiction
China • 1930s
1946
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Pavilion of Women by Pearl S. Buck, set in pre-World War I China, narrates the journey of Madame Wu, a pampered aristocrat, who decides to withdraw from her marital duties on her fortieth birthday. She finds a concubine for her husband, aiming to focus on self-education and intellectual pursuits. Her life changes when she meets Father Andre, a Christian missionary, who challenges and enriches her views on life, love, and learning.
Contemplative
Emotional
Inspirational
Romantic
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
18,822 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Pavilion of Women by Pearl S. Buck is praised for its rich cultural depiction and compelling portrayal of women's roles in 1930s China. Readers appreciate the protagonist's journey toward self-discovery and the novel's lyrical prose. However, some criticize its slow pacing and occasional predictability. Overall, the book offers a profound and thought-provoking narrative.
Who Should Read Pavilion of Women?
Readers who appreciate cultural introspection and rich family sagas will enjoy Pearl S. Buck's Pavilion of Women. Fans of Lisa See’s Snow Flower and the Secret Fan or Amy Tan’s The Joy Luck Club will resonate with its exploration of Chinese traditions and the personal growth of its female protagonist.
18,822 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Pavilion of Women was published in 1946 and is one of Pearl S. Buck's later works, reflecting her extensive knowledge and experience with Chinese culture and society.
The novel is notable for its exploration of women's autonomy and complex relationships within the traditional family structure of China, which adds depth to its feminist themes.
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Pearl S. Buck was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1938, making her one of the few female American authors to have received this prestigious recognition.
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316
Novel • Fiction
China • 1930s
1946
Adult
18+ years
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