I thought Scottish mothers had the corner
on guilt trips, tough love and manipulation, but having read Elaine Lui’s
hilarious (sort of) memoir I realize that Chinese mothers obviously went to the
same school. The common bond between these mothers is that they want the best
for their children, and they want their children to be the best that they can
be.
Elaine Lui’s mother, who’s Chinese name
translates to Squawking Chicken, is feisty, highly opinionated, and a fighter. She
was raised in Hong Kong by parents that ran a Mah Jong den, and yet, overcame
great difficulty and hardship in her own life. The book is an account of how
she prepares her daughter to succeed in life by teaching her life lessons along
the way. In Elaine Lui’s mother's point of view every moment is a teaching
moment, and will continue to be as long as she is alive. I learned a great deal
about Chinese culture, and familial obligation in this novel, some of which
western off-spring would do well to emulate.
The memoir is a monument to mother–daughter
relationships, the ups and downs of that relationship and the many rewards are
both equally represented; however, what shines through the most is the love
that exists between these two very different women. A great story to share with
mothers and daughters everywhere, especially as Mother’s Day approaches.
-- Catherine McGratton
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