If you enjoyed "The School For Good Mothers" by Jessamine Chan, then you'll probably enjoy "Our Missing Hearts" by Celeste Ng! For fans of speculative fiction!
Book #1: "The School For Good Mothers" by Jessamine Chan - read my full review here!
In Jessamine Chan's debut novel, "The School for Good Mothers," the protagonist, Frida Liu, finds herself in a precarious situation after a single lapse in judgment jeopardizes her custody of her cherished daughter, Harriet. Struggling with societal expectations, Frida's life takes a tumultuous turn when the state intervenes, scrutinizing her parenting abilities. The novel explores the challenges faced by Frida as she confronts the consequences of her actions, navigating a government reform program that evaluates her suitability as a mother. Against the backdrop of upper-middle-class parenting ideals, the narrative delves into themes of sacrifice, societal pressures, and the complex dynamics that define motherhood. The story becomes a compelling exploration of redemption, maternal devotion, and the enduring power of love.
“Loneliness is a form of narcissism. A mother who is in harmony with her child, who understands her place in her child's life and her role in society, is never lonely. Through caring for her child, all her needs are fulfilled.”
Book #2: "Our Missing Hearts" Celeste Ng - read my full review here!
In "Our Missing Hearts," twelve-year-old Bird Gardner lives in a restrained society governed by laws aiming to preserve "American culture" after years of economic instability and violence. Bird and his despondent father lead a quiet life, adhering to the rules that allow authorities to relocate children of rebels, especially those of Asian origin. Libraries are forced to remove books deemed unpatriotic, including those by Bird's estranged mother, Margaret, a Chinese American poet. Bird receives a mysterious letter that propels him on a quest to find her.
“Why did I tell you so many stories? Because I wanted the world to make sense to you. I wanted to make sense of the world, for you. I wanted the world to make sense.”
Both "The School for Good Mothers" and "Our Missing Hearts" share elements related to the scrutiny and control imposed by societal norms and governmental authorities on individuals, particularly mothers and families. In both novels, the protagonists, Frida and Bird, navigate challenging circumstances shaped by laws and expectations set by the government. The stories delve into the consequences of societal pressures, exploring the impact on individuals who deviate from established norms. Additionally, both narratives involve a quest or journey—Frida's quest for redemption and proving herself as a mother in "The School for Good Mothers," and Bird's journey to find his mother in "Our Missing Hearts." These novels offer examinations of the complexities of familial relationships, societal expectations, and the quest for personal identity within restrictive environments.
I hope you find as much enjoyment in these reads as I did! I highly recommend checking out the trigger warnings, which can also be found in my full reviews , as both books delve into challenging themes.
Happy reading!
Bobbi
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