Once in a while we stumble upon a gem of an author with refreshing twist to his/her storytelling and Adeline Yen Mah is one of such author.
In this book entitled "A Thousand Pieces of Gold", she managed to bring the art of storytelling to greater heights by linking Chinese proverbs into her life while explaining the history, significance and meaning behind those proverbs in short and concise chapters.
Being English educated, I don't know much about Chinese proverbs and it is indeed an eye opener to see that it is alive and well in use even now; literally and practically peppered into daily usage as summary or to spice conversation/writings.
Quoting from the book:
"British poet Philip Larkin once described Chinese proverbs as "white dwarfs" of literature because each was so densely compacted with thoughts and ideas."
I wouldn't have known all these proverbs if not for Adeline Yen Mah. Now thanks to her, I can proudly say that I am "ren xin gui han" (the heart of the people belongs to Han).
Personal rating: 10 out of 10 (definitely a worthwhile read)
Cons:
1) None
Pros:
1) Proverbs are explained in simple and direct story telling style.
2) Chapters are written in short and concise paragraphs with examples and stories infused to achieve greater effects.
In this book entitled "A Thousand Pieces of Gold", she managed to bring the art of storytelling to greater heights by linking Chinese proverbs into her life while explaining the history, significance and meaning behind those proverbs in short and concise chapters.
Being English educated, I don't know much about Chinese proverbs and it is indeed an eye opener to see that it is alive and well in use even now; literally and practically peppered into daily usage as summary or to spice conversation/writings.
Quoting from the book:
"British poet Philip Larkin once described Chinese proverbs as "white dwarfs" of literature because each was so densely compacted with thoughts and ideas."
I wouldn't have known all these proverbs if not for Adeline Yen Mah. Now thanks to her, I can proudly say that I am "ren xin gui han" (the heart of the people belongs to Han).
Personal rating: 10 out of 10 (definitely a worthwhile read)
Cons:
1) None
Pros:
1) Proverbs are explained in simple and direct story telling style.
2) Chapters are written in short and concise paragraphs with examples and stories infused to achieve greater effects.
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