Wednesday, January 31, 2007

The Binding Chair


The Binding Chair, By Katherine Harrison ***



May's feet were bound when she was a child, as many Chinese girls feet were for over 900 years until the 20th century when it was outlawed. The story alternates by chapter between May and the English family that she finally marries into. I find the story and the characters unbeleivable and strange. Foot binding alone should have provided material enough for a story without introducing this English family. Somehow, though, it kept me reading through an agonizing 372 pages. I am amazed that Amazon.com readers give this book a generous 3 1/2 stars.


2 comments:

Debi said...

I've reverted back to my old bad ways: when I can't get into a book, I don't finish it.

What a shame you didn't like this book, what with such a lovely cover, an interesting period of history, and those good ratings on Amazon.

Antigone said...

I bought this book at a second hand store and like you, could never get into it. I keep reading thinking, "ok it's fixing to get good". I put the book down. I guess I won't be sending you my copy, ha!