As The Earth Turns Silver – Alison Wong

READ FOR BOOKCLUB
Chosen by Jo

The story and struggles of settler families in early 20th-Century New Zealand. Yung and Shun are immigrants from China. They become greengrocers in Wellington and know they must adapt to their adopted home. Englishwoman Katherine McKechnie struggles to raise her rebellious son and daughter following the death of her husband. Ultimately this award winner is a love story that breaks all the societal norms of the time.

He came from behind and held her in his arms, told her to look again at the earth and sky and water. Could she see how the world turned silver? People died, he told her, because they were afraid. They did not go out at night on dangerous water. They did not see the earth as it turned overnight to silver.

◉ “As The Earth Turns Silver has all the hallmarks of a classic Kiwi novel, yet it focuses on a story few have told, that of the struggles of migrant Asian families. The juxtaposition of their historical traditions versus a new Western life played out compellingly. As such I was entertained but also educated about another aspect of our country’s history. The mellifluous writing style ensures a measured reading pace and the storyline doesn’t disappoint.” – Rachel

◉ “This is a tragic love story which explores themes of racism and oppression. A refreshing change for a NZ novel to delve into early Chinese life and culture and I had no idea that Chinese immigrants were thought of so poorly and treated in such an appalling way by the British. Although Katherine suffers oppression, Chinese women were subject to miserable existences that made Katherine’s situation appear much more privileged. Beautifully written with wonderful characters both good and detestable. I loved it.” – Jo

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Published 2009
Penguin Books
288 pages