Four Treasures of the Sky by Jenny Tinghui Zhang

Title: Four Treasures of the Sky
Author: Jenny Tinghui Zhang
Publisher: Flatiron Books
Genre: Historical Fiction
Year of Publication: 2022
Date of Publication: April 5, 2022
Pages: 336
ISBN-13: 9781250811783

Summary

Four Treasures of the Sky follows the journey of Daiyu, a young Chinese girl kidnapped and brought to America in the late 1800s.

Named after a tragic heroine from Chinese folklore, Daiyu struggles to survive in a land that is hostile to Chinese immigrants.

After being trafficked and enduring severe hardship, she attempts to forge a new identity in the American West, facing dangers, prejudice, and the resilience needed to survive.

Main Plot & Characters

The protagonist, Daiyu, is a spirited and resourceful young girl whose life takes a tragic turn when she is kidnapped.

Throughout her journey, she assumes different identities and learns to survive in a world that marginalizes her.

Key characters include people she encounters who reflect the varied attitudes toward Chinese immigrants, from those who show her small kindnesses to those who embody the racism and cruelty of the time.

Daiyu’s growth and determination to rise above her circumstances lie at the heart of the novel.

Key Themes of Four Treasures of the Sky

Themes include identity, resilience, cultural heritage, and survival.

The novel examines the experience of Chinese immigrants in 19th-century America, touching on the effects of discrimination and erasure.

Zhang also explores the concept of self-reinvention and the impact of cultural heritage on individual identity.

The novel’s title references the “four treasures” of Chinese calligraphy, symbolizing Daiyu’s connection to her homeland and her inner strength.

Writing Style

Jenny Tinghui Zhang’s writing weaves in Chinese folklore and descriptions that enrich the narrative, allowing readers to feel Daiyu’s fear, courage, and determination.

Impact of Four Treasures of the Sky

This novel sheds light on a seldom-discussed period of Chinese-American history, bringing empathy to the struggles of early Chinese immigrants.

Zhang’s portrayal of Daiyu’s resilience inspires readers to consider themes of identity and endurance amid adversity.

Four Treasures of the Sky emphasizes the importance of reclaiming one’s narrative even in the face of immense challenges.

What are your thoughts on this book? Have you had a chance to read it? Let us know in the comments!