Book Review: The Piano Teacher

I just finished my February book selection,The Piano Teacher by Janice Y.K. Lee. The story story is set in post-war, 1953 Hong Kong and is about a young British woman, Claire, who has taken a job as a piano teacher for the very affluent Chen's. Although the story begins post-war, we are introduced to the dark and troubled character of Will and his experiences during the war. A married Claire, becomes very close to the physically unattached (mentally attached)Will and we watch as their two lives collide and as victims fall to their circumstance.

It's a graphic look at what Hong Kong looked like as a country through war and the recovery. It's a grim look at human nature and what individuals are willing to do when put in dire straits. It's also a story about choice and it's repercussions. The story finishes with a refreshing ending that brings optimism and opportunity to new beginnings.

Overall, I liked the book. The only negative I would mention is that it was a difficult starter; I felt like I didn't really have a full grasp on the characters until I was about a third of the way through the book. However, once the players were all set and the story started to present itself I found that I had a difficult time putting the book down. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is looking for a darker plot and for someone who is willing to wade through the waters a bit to get to the heart of the story.

Now I'm off to pick up my March selection....

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