Green Island
Green Island
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016
Book Brief
Beta400
Novel • Fiction
Taiwan • 1940s
2016
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Green Island by Shawna Yang Ryan follows a Taiwanese family across several generations, beginning with the tumultuous political events of the February 28 Massacre in 1947. The novel explores themes of identity, exile, and cultural heritage as the family grapples with the effects of political oppression and displacement.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Emotional
Melancholic
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
3,700 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Green Island by Shawna Yang Ryan is praised for its vivid portrayal of Taiwan's White Terror period, offering a gripping historical context. The lyrical prose and complex characters deepen the narrative. Some critiques mention a densely packed storyline and slower pacing. Despite this, Ryan's ability to weave personal and political tales is a noted strength.
Who Should Read Green Island?
A reader captivated by political history, family sagas, and cultural explorations would enjoy Shawna Yang Ryan's Green Island. Fans of Min Jin Lee's Pachinko and Yaa Gyasi's Homegoing will appreciate its intricate narrative, blending Taiwan's history with personal identity and resilience.
3,700 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
400
Novel • Fiction
Taiwan • 1940s
2016
Adult
18+ years
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