"Shanghai Girls" is a historical novel by Lisa See, published in 2009. The novel is set in the period between the 1930s and 1950s and primarily takes place in Shanghai, China, and later in Los Angeles, California. It tells the story of two Chinese sisters, Pearl and May, who come from a privileged background in Shanghai but find their lives dramatically changed by the historical events of the time.
The story begins in the glamorous city of Shanghai, where Pearl and May lead a life of luxury as "beautiful girls," models for calendar art. However, their lives take a dark turn when they are married off to Chinese-American brothers in arranged marriages in order to pay off their father's gambling debts.
The novel explores the challenges and cultural clashes the two sisters face as they move to Los Angeles, California, and adapt to a new life far from their homeland. It delves into themes of identity, family, and the pursuit of the American Dream, as the sisters navigate the harsh realities of immigration, discrimination, and family secrets.
Lisa See's "Shanghai Girls" is a well-researched novel that not only provides a gripping story but also sheds light on the experiences of Chinese immigrants during a tumultuous period in history. It's a tale of resilience, sisterhood, and the pursuit of happiness against the backdrop of significant historical events in both China and the United States.
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