63 pages • 2 hours read
Wayson ChoyThe Jade Peony
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1995A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Jade Peony by Wayson Choy, set during World War II, follows three Chinese-Canadian siblings: Liang, who forms a profound friendship with Wong Suk, a marginalized elder; Jung, who grapples with his blossoming sexuality and crush on Frank Yuen; and Sekky, who shares a deep bond with his grandmother, Grandmama, who teaches him about old Chinese traditions. The book includes themes of racism, poverty, and struggling with sexual identity.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Wayson Choy's The Jade Peony is praised for its beautifully crafted portrayal of the Chinese-Canadian immigrant experience and the rich, evocative narrative that brings Vancouver's Chinatown in the 1930s and 1940s to life. Critics commend its authentic voices and nuanced characters, though some find the pacing slow. Overall, it’s a poignant and insightful read.
Who Should Read The Jade Peony?
Readers who appreciate The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan or The Bonesetter's Daughter will enjoy The Jade Peony by Wayson Choy. Ideal for those interested in immigrant stories, cultural identity, and family dynamics, this novel offers a rich exploration of Chinese-Canadian heritage set in early 20th-century Vancouver.