The Good Earth is a book straight out of Chinese history. At a time when greedy aristocrats and lazy lords dominate the proletariat, survival is a well known challenge for the average farmer. This book tells the story of one such farmer, Wang Lung, and his struggle to make something more of his depressingly provincial life. When he finds a good woman to be his wife, things start to turn around for him, but sadly he takes it all for granted. As Wang Lung becomes more wealthy, he becomes more lazy and carries a steadily increasing chance to become a poor farmer once again.
Review
Although I did not enjoy this book at the time I read it, I highly recommend it as an insightful and well researched gaze into Chinese history. Though the hardships that these farmers had to face could at times be hard to take in, the knowledge I gained from reading this book is definitely valuable. This book was a somewhat slow read, but mysteriously entertaining to the end. Pearl S Buck’s novel provides not only a documentation of Chinese history but also a unique look into a little known culture. For anyone who enjoys historical fiction, especially in a foreign land, I recommend The Good Earth.