"Little Gods" by Meng Jin is a novel that explores the complexities of identity, family, and memory. The story is set in contemporary China and follows the lives of several characters whose lives intersect in unexpected ways. The central character is Liya, a Chinese-American physicist who returns to China to bury her recently deceased mother, Su Lan. Through Liya's journey, the novel delves into Su Lan's past, unraveling her life story and the secrets she left behind. As Liya grapples with her mother's enigmatic past, she also navigates her own sense of belonging and cultural identity as a Chinese-American. The novel weaves together multiple perspectives and timelines, revealing the interconnectedness of the characters and the impact of personal and political histories on their lives. "Little Gods" is a rich and evocative novel that explores themes of family, identity, and memory, while delving into the complexities of Chinese history and culture.
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