Cloud Mountain

This novel recounts the harrowing tale of an American woman and her Chinese husband in the early 20th Century. Hope Newfield meets her future husband Liang Po-yu while he is a student at Berkeley and she was engaged in tutoring students. They journeyed to Wyoming to marry (avoiding laws in other states forbidding marriage between those of different races) and after living several years in California, the couple moved to China, where both Hope and Po-yu were caught up in the political upheaval which characterized early 20th century China. While the history is fascinating, the novel can be slow-paced at times. Furthermore, much is told from Hope's point of view, and Hope makes a point not to become involved, or even very knowledgeable, show more about Chinese politics, a frustrating attitude for the reader who does want to know more about China during this period. show less

I enjoyed the historical aspects. I would never have put up with what the main character did. I would have taken my children and left for America, even thoughI loved the guy a great deal! Still, I really enjoyed the book, but I'm a big fan of Chinese historical fiction (Amy Tan and Lisa See). I've just received the author's "Flash House"; a review to follow.

This is a work of fiction based on the lives of the authors grandparents. The grandmother was American and the grandfather Chinese. They met at an American college and fell in love. They proceeded to travel to another state to get married as California did not allow mixed marriages. After a few years in the states, they return to China were the husband is very big into the political scene and all the changes taking place in the country. Not sure how much I recommend the book. It really is a sad and lonely story - and as it is a work of fiction, I think there are many other sources where you can learn cultural information on the time period. But if you are looking for a fictional piece this may do for you. I dont think guys would like it show more too much -- almost borders a romance type novel in the writing style. show less

Here's what I wrote in 2008 about this read: "Required some online reviews to recall, but. . . .tale of love across two cultures during early 20th century. California woman teacher marries a revolutionary chinese man. Based on author's grandparents' lives. A good read."