An enchanting story of poverty and wealth in 19th Century rural China. It is the story of two women, who, in their cloistered life, can only communicate with each other by writing on their secret fan. It brings to life in many ways the impact - and pain - of foot-binding, the hopes and obligations of family members, and the very lowly status of female children and widows in rural Chinese life. Beautifully written, and absorbing to read, it adds greatly to students' understanding of C19th China.