Lydia’s Comments (group member since Apr 24, 2022)

Lydia’s comments from the The Obscure Reading Group group.

Thanks, Sue, --Yes, I read "Garden of the Evening Mists" by Eng a few years ago too. It was a very special book, and now I'm surprised how much these two books have the same feeling and tone. The description may even be of the same garden at the same house--although that book was about the gardener. One puzzle: Why is Eng always writing about rain? He's not talking about the environment. Or why are his books titles about mist & rain? And what is the gift? I can think of only one idea for "The Gift of Rain," but I'll save that for book 2 discussion.

I feel that this story started slowly, somehow drawing me into the plot. In the beginning, I wondered how Philip as narrator could really carry this story. I also felt like I had read a similar story about this time in Penang's history (escaping into the mountains, living in a mansion), but I can't find it. Now after finishing Book One, I am in awe that Tan Twan Eng can craft his first book with such beautiful descriptions, making Penang come alive. I think I enjoy it so much because he brings such a warmth and deep emotion to describing love of his family, his friend Kon, Uncle Kim, and of course Endo-san.

Hi, Ken, and all...is the June book by Turgenev, also known as "Home of the Gentlefolk?" I don't see "Home of the Gentry" at my library and it sounds like a translation difference, thanks, Lydia