Rate this book

The Third Son: A Novel (2013)

by Julie Wu(Favorite Author)

3.76 of 5 Votes: 5

ISBN

1616200790 (ISBN13: 9781616200794)

languge

English

genre

Romance

publisher

Algonquin Books

review 1: Not your average 1940s Japanese story (if there is one). Begins in 1943, World War II, not from the perspective of Japanese internment camps rather air strikes in occupied Taiwan right before it was handed over to the Chinese National Army. As you may guess, being the third son is not a glamorous thing, and in Saburo’s case this is definitely true. Short end of the stick for everything except discipline. However, he is smart determined boy with strong moral compass and tongue at times. Yoshiko, the co-star of the book, enjoys a much more fulfilling family life, not without struggles. The two meet by chance as schoolchildren dawdling home after class, then are caught unaware in an airstrike. From this point on, their relationship becomes central to the story line with the... morem reuniting, in all places, a pharmacy. It seems the more I live and do and read the more connections I find with books. Who would have thought a pharmacy could be the spot to find romance… oh wait, that is what I did. Hee hee….. I won’t spoil the book this time, just know that you will hope rooting for the good guy pays off and be prepared feel a little let down, as this book is from a realist’s perspective. Julie Wu does a great job illustrating that there is hope that even if you family messed up the nurture portion, there is good nature in all of us, somewhere.
review 2: Beautifully written debut novel that is written much like a memoir. It begins in 1943 Japanese occupied Taiwan, continues through struggle with Chinese Nationalism and Communism, and ends in late 50's/early 60's America. The story follows a young Taiwanese boy through his life journey towards freedom of self from the constrictions of family and culture. I was instantly drawn into his story, feeling sorrow at the misfortunes he was dealt and rooting for him as he fought for a destiny he needed and wanted. I only wish a map of Taiwan, Mainland China, and Japan had been included so I could better relate to the various areas referred to by the author because my knowledge of the area is somewhat lacking. All in all, Julie Wu has crafted a lovely story and I look forward to reading more by her. less

Download links for: The Third Son: A Novel

Advertising