Laura's thoughts on Wild Swans

1. I feel like I have already talked about this with everyone, since it has been particularly interesting to contrast what we read about in the book and what we saw during the Olympics. I am amazed by how much of the realities from the book I saw displayed during the Olympics. I cannot believe that families let their three year old daughters be taken away from them to live in gymnastics camps. I cannot believe that there are still countries in which people are compelled into participation. One particularly interesting thing was an article I read about Yao Ming. The article, written by an American, said that the Chinese government must stop compelling Yao to play for them in the off-season, espcially in non-Olympic years. The author said he must say no. After reading the book, however, I get the sense that this is impossible. Not only does he feel it his responsibility, but the consequences for refusal are so far reaching. Wow. good timing on the book.

2. One thing I enjoyed about the book was the courage of the three women in putting family first. The grandmother defied her status as concubine and concealed her daughter. The mother's actions were so frequently driven by her desires for her children, even in a time when that was politically unacceptable. One act that was particularly amazing was the mother's actions for her husband. She twice appealed for him when it could have been suicide. Not to mention that he had failed to treat her the same way. The daughter also exemplified this type of courage as she struggled to take care of her parents, grandmother and aunt.

3. I know, of course, that you are speaking of the father and I, too, felt the same way. He was always driven by what he thought was the best kind of honor. Not until the end of the story, however, did he realize what this truly meant. I was pleased with who he became.

4. I doubt that these people ever considered a God. To do so would have been treason of the worst kind. My guess is that they did sense something higher, particularly as it related to their family. Perhaps this brought them to God as they grew older.

FINALLY- Questions for the June/July Book

Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China
1. In my mind there has been a lot of thought between then (the time period of the book) and now, particularly because of the Olympics. Any thoughts you have on this since we "compare and contrast" countries as we (USA) compete in China?
2. From the book: All three of the women at the center of Wild Swans display great courage, often to a stunning extent- speaking out in times of enforced unanimity, facing firing squads, risking their lives for the sake of others. Compare the kinds of bravery they exemplified. Does on stand out as particularly courageous?
3. At times in this book, and with one person particularly, I was angry and disgusted, but by the end I had more sympathy and respect than I ever thought I would. Did the story and conclusion of it bring similar feelings? If yes, what specifically brought the changes in feelings?
4. Do you think that some experiences these people had, and the small miracles that happened in their lives was a result of their faith or hope in God (also in eternal, true principles)? Having been subjected throughout time to deify the emperor or leader, do you think they ever thought of a "higher power" than a man? Why?

Can't wait to hear your answers!
Happy Reading!