This review is part of the Literature World Tour.
To be honest, I'd rather not read literature from China. I'd read enough folk tales when my teachers were desperately trying to get me to show an interest in the Chinese language and had been subjected to under-educated nationalism and patriotism when I lived there. But I was bored one day and my sister had left a copy of Shanghai Baby on the shelves for me.
If this was a book writtten by someone from North America or Europe, it probably wouldn't have raised an eyebrow (or got many reviews). A young woman struggling with her sense of identity, place, and sexual desires in a modern society? Bo-oring! The fact that it ended up being banned in China was, in my humble opinion, the main reason why it became so talked-about.
The novel itself didn't strike any 'this book is so amazing!' chords with me, but it was more interesting to see the Chinese government's reaction. Women who are unashamed of their sexuality and display what are considered more 'masculine' characteristics are frowned upon and considered 'bad' women by society. Shanghai Baby was refreshing and lifted the lid on a part of China the government didn't want to acknowledge, so Wei Hui deserves praise for her candour.
Next in China: Rebecca's review of Wild Swans
Next stop on the Literature World Tour: Japan!
