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Song
Opening in the mid-nineteenth-century, this dazzling debut novel traces the voyage of Song, a boy who leaves his impoverished family in rural China to seek his fortune. Song may have survived the perilous journey to the colony of British Guiana in the Caribbean, but once there he discovers riches are hard to come by, as he finds himself working as an indentured plantation worker.
Between places, between peoples, and increasingly aware that circumstances of birth carry more weight than accomplishments or good deeds, Song fears he may live as an outsider forever. This is a far-reaching and atmospheric story spanning nearly half a century and half the globe, and though it is set in the past, Song's story of emigration and the quest for opportunity is, in many ways, a very contemporary tale.
Between places, between peoples, and increasingly aware that circumstances of birth carry more weight than accomplishments or good deeds, Song fears he may live as an outsider forever. This is a far-reaching and atmospheric story spanning nearly half a century and half the globe, and though it is set in the past, Song's story of emigration and the quest for opportunity is, in many ways, a very contemporary tale.
480 pages, Hardcover
Published July 24, 2018
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296 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 23, 2021
I've taken a moment or two out of my fun-packed evening schedule to write this review for Song, not only because I feel I need to get this review out of my system due to being at breaking point, and also being totally disappointed with myself for purchasing this, and finally, because I feel I have a solid duty to warn fellow readers on just how mind-numbingly boring and poorly written this book actually is.
Get ready, because I've been ready to write this since page twenty.
This is a very simple story of an individual called Song (ironically) and his unbelievably bland life. Song is on a quest for a better life, which begins as soon as I open the book. There is a lack of background of Song, and before I knew it, I was being dragged along by my ankle on his puny travels.
What baffles the mind is the seventeen or more positive reviews written about this book. It is described as a painfully realistic and vividly descriptive, which has me wondering, were we reading from the same pages?
The writing style was intelligible, but it was terribly monotonous, and the majority of the book read like this; Song went on the boat and met a boy there. Song was upset when the boy died. Song went for a walk. Song was sleepy. Song met a woman. Catch my drift?
It was exasperating and repetitive, and it turns out, Song never really did anything memorable at all. The very best part, which made me laugh out loud, was when the reader was supposed to feel pity for Song, but while his Wife was expecting a child, he tootled off and dipped his bread with another woman, but his wife was totally cool with that, it appears. It's okay though, because Song was out the next day trying to make his fortune! Good ol'Song!
When I read a book, I expect to be able to pull at least one positive aspect out of it, even if it is a feeble one, but unfortunately in the case of Song, the best aspect of it, was getting to the last page. A weak plot, mixed with totally forgettable characters, makes one take a deep sigh of relief that it's over.
Get ready, because I've been ready to write this since page twenty.
This is a very simple story of an individual called Song (ironically) and his unbelievably bland life. Song is on a quest for a better life, which begins as soon as I open the book. There is a lack of background of Song, and before I knew it, I was being dragged along by my ankle on his puny travels.
What baffles the mind is the seventeen or more positive reviews written about this book. It is described as a painfully realistic and vividly descriptive, which has me wondering, were we reading from the same pages?
The writing style was intelligible, but it was terribly monotonous, and the majority of the book read like this; Song went on the boat and met a boy there. Song was upset when the boy died. Song went for a walk. Song was sleepy. Song met a woman. Catch my drift?
It was exasperating and repetitive, and it turns out, Song never really did anything memorable at all. The very best part, which made me laugh out loud, was when the reader was supposed to feel pity for Song, but while his Wife was expecting a child, he tootled off and dipped his bread with another woman, but his wife was totally cool with that, it appears. It's okay though, because Song was out the next day trying to make his fortune! Good ol'Song!
When I read a book, I expect to be able to pull at least one positive aspect out of it, even if it is a feeble one, but unfortunately in the case of Song, the best aspect of it, was getting to the last page. A weak plot, mixed with totally forgettable characters, makes one take a deep sigh of relief that it's over.
July 16, 2018
Arriving in Guiana, nine-year old Song finds little evidence of the easy fortunes to be made that enticed him to risk his life to travel there. Instead he finds only punishing labour, harsh cruelty and an existence akin to slavery on a sugarcane plantation. By a stroke of good fortune, Song is taken under the wing of Father Holmes who teaches him to read and write and introduces Song to the love of books and reading. Not everyone agrees with Father Holmes’ decision to educate a ‘houseboy’ but Father Holmes robustly defends his actions. “Reading changes everything. Writing will give him a step up. Whatever Song chooses to do in life he’ll do it better with a pen or book in his hand.” (Who could disagree with that?) Together Song and Father Holmes form a close bond, sharing a mutual interest in documenting the native birds of Guiana.
A trip ‘upriver’ with Father Holmes gives Song a possible new direction in life. However, it’s one that is not without danger. When a shocking act of betrayal and violence occurs, it results in a desperate act that will haunt Song for years afterwards. It also illustrates the lure of gold which, like a fever, infects the so-called ‘pork-knockers’ who set out to make their fortunes.
As Song sets out to achieve the life objectives he has set himself, he faces discrimination and injustice. This reader certainly gave a little cheer as Song begins to fight back against the forces of the “old boys’ network” he finds ranged against him. However, along the way, he is forced to make difficult and at times questionable moral choices.
Song is clever, resourceful and mindful of the advice he receives from the influential figures in his life: Father Holmes (a wonderful warm and humane character); his shipmate on the terrible voyage to Guiana, Li Bai; and mining engineer, Mr Leigh. He also benefits from the wisdom of several women – Jingy, Josie, Amalia – with their ability to read a situation.
I’m always drawn to descriptions of food in books and there are some great ones in Song that really bring to life the atmosphere of Georgetown. ‘There were baked chicken legs in molasses; chicken wings in forest honey; bass with onion and ginger; cauldrons of pepper pot; rice coloured with strands of saffron; blackened barbecue pork; potato and pea curry with turmeric, and dozen dishes of stewed okra and fried tomatoes.’
A repeated theme of the book is the importance of living a life that is ‘a story worth telling’. Song’s life is definitely a story worth telling. Song is a wonderful tale of survival, friendship, courage and triumph over adversity. It also has at its heart a tender and heart-warming love story. Michelle, you had me in tears at the end.
I received a review copy courtesy of publishers, Unbound, and Random Things Tours, in return for an honest and unbiased review.
A trip ‘upriver’ with Father Holmes gives Song a possible new direction in life. However, it’s one that is not without danger. When a shocking act of betrayal and violence occurs, it results in a desperate act that will haunt Song for years afterwards. It also illustrates the lure of gold which, like a fever, infects the so-called ‘pork-knockers’ who set out to make their fortunes.
As Song sets out to achieve the life objectives he has set himself, he faces discrimination and injustice. This reader certainly gave a little cheer as Song begins to fight back against the forces of the “old boys’ network” he finds ranged against him. However, along the way, he is forced to make difficult and at times questionable moral choices.
Song is clever, resourceful and mindful of the advice he receives from the influential figures in his life: Father Holmes (a wonderful warm and humane character); his shipmate on the terrible voyage to Guiana, Li Bai; and mining engineer, Mr Leigh. He also benefits from the wisdom of several women – Jingy, Josie, Amalia – with their ability to read a situation.
I’m always drawn to descriptions of food in books and there are some great ones in Song that really bring to life the atmosphere of Georgetown. ‘There were baked chicken legs in molasses; chicken wings in forest honey; bass with onion and ginger; cauldrons of pepper pot; rice coloured with strands of saffron; blackened barbecue pork; potato and pea curry with turmeric, and dozen dishes of stewed okra and fried tomatoes.’
A repeated theme of the book is the importance of living a life that is ‘a story worth telling’. Song’s life is definitely a story worth telling. Song is a wonderful tale of survival, friendship, courage and triumph over adversity. It also has at its heart a tender and heart-warming love story. Michelle, you had me in tears at the end.
I received a review copy courtesy of publishers, Unbound, and Random Things Tours, in return for an honest and unbiased review.
April 7, 2021
First off, I have to say, this cover is just GORGEOUS! 🙌
So on to my review...I LOVED this book. Seriously LOVED it. The writing. The setting. The wonderful cast of characters. What a fabulous debut novel for this author. It was heading towards a 5-star rating, then the ending happened. Sigh...what is it with books lately that just end SO abruptly?! Maybe I am a just a reader that prefers my endings a little more wrapped up. 🤷 For me, this one needed a few more chapters. There were plot lines that were just left hanging (the issue with the governor) for one. I also would have loved to see a peek into the future of some characters. However, even with those minor issues, this was a 👍👍 read.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
So on to my review...I LOVED this book. Seriously LOVED it. The writing. The setting. The wonderful cast of characters. What a fabulous debut novel for this author. It was heading towards a 5-star rating, then the ending happened. Sigh...what is it with books lately that just end SO abruptly?! Maybe I am a just a reader that prefers my endings a little more wrapped up. 🤷 For me, this one needed a few more chapters. There were plot lines that were just left hanging (the issue with the governor) for one. I also would have loved to see a peek into the future of some characters. However, even with those minor issues, this was a 👍👍 read.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
June 27, 2018
Firstly I have to say how much I love that cover, the bold colours and unusual picture really works. I know you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover but I think there is no denying that a great cover definetly helps.
This was a surprising emotional read for me. The hardships that Songs family endure at the start of the novel was just heartbreaking and I have no idea how I’d cope in a similar situation. The strength and resilience the children show in this situation made me cry and i just wanted to give them a hug. I ran upstairs to hug my kids after reading some parts of this book.
Song was a character it’s hard not to fall in love with. He’s so brave setting off to try and help his family, even more so when you realise he’s only 9. All the hardships and awful things he experiences on the way was very sad and I kept hoping he’d find someone to take him under his wing.
This isn’t a particularly fast moving book but what makes it is the beautiful descriptions and attention to detail that is included. The author has clearly done her research and I found it fascinating to learn more about the history of this part of the world. The reader wants to continue reading to find out what happens to Song and if he makes his fortune to help his family. The story is ultimately uplifting and it was wonderful to see how far Song had come.
This is the author’s debut novel and I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
Huge thanks to Anne Cater and Unbound publishers for inviting me onto the blog tour and for my copy of this book.
This was a surprising emotional read for me. The hardships that Songs family endure at the start of the novel was just heartbreaking and I have no idea how I’d cope in a similar situation. The strength and resilience the children show in this situation made me cry and i just wanted to give them a hug. I ran upstairs to hug my kids after reading some parts of this book.
Song was a character it’s hard not to fall in love with. He’s so brave setting off to try and help his family, even more so when you realise he’s only 9. All the hardships and awful things he experiences on the way was very sad and I kept hoping he’d find someone to take him under his wing.
This isn’t a particularly fast moving book but what makes it is the beautiful descriptions and attention to detail that is included. The author has clearly done her research and I found it fascinating to learn more about the history of this part of the world. The reader wants to continue reading to find out what happens to Song and if he makes his fortune to help his family. The story is ultimately uplifting and it was wonderful to see how far Song had come.
This is the author’s debut novel and I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
Huge thanks to Anne Cater and Unbound publishers for inviting me onto the blog tour and for my copy of this book.
June 14, 2018
I found this to be an astonishing story which showed the best, and worst, of humanity in all its' guises as we follow the story of Song who starts with nothing in life and fights to get the best kind of life he can for himself and those around him.
The story starts in 1878 in a small village where life is a constant struggle and the families are dependant on the weather for the crops to feed themselves and to sell to earn money. When disaster strikes Song takes it on himself, aged 10, to venture further afield and see if the stories he's been told of riches elsewhere are true as he wants to provide for his mother and siblings.
You find when reading this book that Song has an amazing attitude given his circumstances. He's not afraid of hard work and that is what he finds himself doing on a plantation. His first piece of good luck is crossing the path of Father Holmes, who almost becomes a father figure to Song and through his care and treatment of Song helps unleash his potential into becoming a successful young man.
I loved the way the author allowed this story to flow and evolve. No matter what knockbacks Song would receive he would always seem to dust himself off and it would just make him work harder to prove others wrong, and he wasn't afraid to help others too.
This story approaches the subject of racism, slavery and corruption in such a sensitive way, and also in the way that shows Song dealing with all these issues. He is aware of those doing wrong around him and isn't afraid to confront those taking advantage of others, no matter what consequences he may face for speaking up.
A totally captivating read!
The story starts in 1878 in a small village where life is a constant struggle and the families are dependant on the weather for the crops to feed themselves and to sell to earn money. When disaster strikes Song takes it on himself, aged 10, to venture further afield and see if the stories he's been told of riches elsewhere are true as he wants to provide for his mother and siblings.
You find when reading this book that Song has an amazing attitude given his circumstances. He's not afraid of hard work and that is what he finds himself doing on a plantation. His first piece of good luck is crossing the path of Father Holmes, who almost becomes a father figure to Song and through his care and treatment of Song helps unleash his potential into becoming a successful young man.
I loved the way the author allowed this story to flow and evolve. No matter what knockbacks Song would receive he would always seem to dust himself off and it would just make him work harder to prove others wrong, and he wasn't afraid to help others too.
This story approaches the subject of racism, slavery and corruption in such a sensitive way, and also in the way that shows Song dealing with all these issues. He is aware of those doing wrong around him and isn't afraid to confront those taking advantage of others, no matter what consequences he may face for speaking up.
A totally captivating read!
November 23, 2018
Wonderful, beautiful, sad, uplifting, gut wrenching.
April 4, 2020
This book stirred up the same feelings of anger, resentment, outrage, and appalling disgust that if get when I visit a stately home. The opulence of the wealthy, their arrogance, their unassailable certainty that they are in every way superior to anyone else, their unforgivable racism and abuse of non whites; it's all here in this carefully crafted story. It made my bold boil!
I've no idea how historically accurate the book is, but it felt real and believable. The author almost never mentions the colour of any characters skin, but you can guess from their accent and setting. I liked this, as this is how things should be, not defined by race but character.
Father Holmes is a constant feature, imperfect (as we find out through the book), but all the more likable for it as he shows true christian love without appearing to judge. Something I found difficult was that clearly we're supposed to like Song, everybody else does, but I never felt any emotional connection to him and struggled to discern what it was that made him so well liked. His story is captivating however, describing his inner ambitions and demons, as all the bad and extremely fortunate events of his life unfold, revealing that to battle the rich and powerful you also need to become rich like them.
I've no idea how historically accurate the book is, but it felt real and believable. The author almost never mentions the colour of any characters skin, but you can guess from their accent and setting. I liked this, as this is how things should be, not defined by race but character.
Father Holmes is a constant feature, imperfect (as we find out through the book), but all the more likable for it as he shows true christian love without appearing to judge. Something I found difficult was that clearly we're supposed to like Song, everybody else does, but I never felt any emotional connection to him and struggled to discern what it was that made him so well liked. His story is captivating however, describing his inner ambitions and demons, as all the bad and extremely fortunate events of his life unfold, revealing that to battle the rich and powerful you also need to become rich like them.
June 26, 2018
I am so pleased that people pledged money to have this book published because it is a definitely a story worth telling.
In technical terms, the writing is superb. The author sets the scenes so perfectly, with sumptuous and evocative descriptions that really helped me to visualise a country I have neither seen nor read much about. There were some gorgeous foody bits (something you know I love) and I could almost feel the heat under the mosquito nets and see the shops on the dusty streets.
Song is such a great main character. His resilience is truly inspiring and I was rooting for him the whole way – though he is by means a perfect character. He has flaws and makes some bad decisions but I felt that there was an inherent goodness in him. And to come from the start he had in life, he could quite easily have taken a different direction. It was uncomfortable to read about Song as a 9-year-old boy going through all the hardships he faced but the author was very sensitive in her portrayal of these scenes.
It was not only the main character whom I loved in this novel. Father Holmes was a complete joy to read about; he is a priest in a severely deprived area and he believes everyone deserves a chance. He is so kind and lovely, teaching Song the importance of learning and not just accepting things as they are. Even minor characters felt well-developed; the author’s portrayal of women was something I really appreciated. Sassy Jingy was a particular favourite.
There are some wonderful moral questions raised in this book, which was definitely one of my favourite aspects. The author highlights racism and corruption in the Church, exploring how even priests and church-going citizens can segregate certain groups of people. (This is not me making any kind of judgement on religion, by the way – I’m merely highlighting that the author raised an important and valid issue.) I loved the way the author called out this discrimination and it had me feeling so righteous on Song’s behalf!
This book was so inspiring. At it’s heart, it’s a wonderful Steinbeck-esque tale of trying to make something of yourself and get that small piece of land to call your own. It conveys the message that we should all believe in the power of our dreams and dare to strive for something bigger. It also emphasises the importance of family. I highly recommend.
In technical terms, the writing is superb. The author sets the scenes so perfectly, with sumptuous and evocative descriptions that really helped me to visualise a country I have neither seen nor read much about. There were some gorgeous foody bits (something you know I love) and I could almost feel the heat under the mosquito nets and see the shops on the dusty streets.
Song is such a great main character. His resilience is truly inspiring and I was rooting for him the whole way – though he is by means a perfect character. He has flaws and makes some bad decisions but I felt that there was an inherent goodness in him. And to come from the start he had in life, he could quite easily have taken a different direction. It was uncomfortable to read about Song as a 9-year-old boy going through all the hardships he faced but the author was very sensitive in her portrayal of these scenes.
It was not only the main character whom I loved in this novel. Father Holmes was a complete joy to read about; he is a priest in a severely deprived area and he believes everyone deserves a chance. He is so kind and lovely, teaching Song the importance of learning and not just accepting things as they are. Even minor characters felt well-developed; the author’s portrayal of women was something I really appreciated. Sassy Jingy was a particular favourite.
There are some wonderful moral questions raised in this book, which was definitely one of my favourite aspects. The author highlights racism and corruption in the Church, exploring how even priests and church-going citizens can segregate certain groups of people. (This is not me making any kind of judgement on religion, by the way – I’m merely highlighting that the author raised an important and valid issue.) I loved the way the author called out this discrimination and it had me feeling so righteous on Song’s behalf!
This book was so inspiring. At it’s heart, it’s a wonderful Steinbeck-esque tale of trying to make something of yourself and get that small piece of land to call your own. It conveys the message that we should all believe in the power of our dreams and dare to strive for something bigger. It also emphasises the importance of family. I highly recommend.
September 10, 2021
My word, this book captured me from the beginning and never let me go. For lovers of historical fiction, it checks every possible box. The nine year-old main character demands engagement and empathy from page one. His traumatic journey from China to Guyana, along with an endearing mentor/father figure, sets a foundation for the rest of the book, and we are privileged to come along.
I’m choosing not to give any more details to avoid potential spoilers. Chan’s skill at layering episodes and characters deftly is on full display, and it would be criminal of me to rob any reader of one iota of the experience.
Thank you to Michelle Jana Chan, Unbound, and NetGalley for an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
I’m choosing not to give any more details to avoid potential spoilers. Chan’s skill at layering episodes and characters deftly is on full display, and it would be criminal of me to rob any reader of one iota of the experience.
Thank you to Michelle Jana Chan, Unbound, and NetGalley for an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 28, 2023
Song is born into poverty and hardship in rural China and as tragedy struck he leaves to seek his fortune. Embarking on a perilous journey he sails across the oceans to land in the British colony of Guiana (British Guyana). He is employed on a sugar plantation, one of many indentured laborers. His fortune changes when he meets Father Holmes and a strong bond is formed. Song’s experiences probably reflects that of the early immigrants who labored in this colony and battled racism and prejudice by the colonial masters.
However, Song is driven by ambition and strives to overcome hardship.
‘It’s a wonderful thing to have your whole life ahead of you, but it’s a crime to waste it,’
‘My partner once told me how too much gold can weigh a man down. I need to be home now. I need to be free of it.’
However, Song is driven by ambition and strives to overcome hardship.
‘It’s a wonderful thing to have your whole life ahead of you, but it’s a crime to waste it,’
‘My partner once told me how too much gold can weigh a man down. I need to be home now. I need to be free of it.’
June 4, 2018
Set in the late 1800s, this is the story of Song - a young Chinese boy who leaves behind his family and home after the death of his father, to seek his fortune in the colonies of the British Empire, namely in Guiana. What follows is a harrowing boat trip, which is so well written, you can almost feel the claustrophobia and smell the death and faeces; his work on a sugar plantation on arrival in Guiana and his journey through decades as he seeks to overcome his past and improve his life and those of his friends and (new) family.
This book deals with slavery, colonialism at its worst, racism and religious prejudice and despite being set in the 19th Century, has some telling similarities to modern day people trafficking and forced labour. But this is not heavy-handed ... Jana Chan has a beautiful way with her prose, she can be poetic and lyrical yet brutal and heartbreaking,
There were occasions where I felt the descriptions were a little lacking (I wanted to be able to smell the moist, dampness of the rainforest 'upriver') and there were a couple of instances of repetitiveness but overall this was a very worthy read and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley, Unbound and Michelle Jana Chan for the opportunity to read and review.
This book deals with slavery, colonialism at its worst, racism and religious prejudice and despite being set in the 19th Century, has some telling similarities to modern day people trafficking and forced labour. But this is not heavy-handed ... Jana Chan has a beautiful way with her prose, she can be poetic and lyrical yet brutal and heartbreaking,
There were occasions where I felt the descriptions were a little lacking (I wanted to be able to smell the moist, dampness of the rainforest 'upriver') and there were a couple of instances of repetitiveness but overall this was a very worthy read and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley, Unbound and Michelle Jana Chan for the opportunity to read and review.
August 2, 2018
The following review will be posted to my blog and social media during publication week -
The plot (in a spoiler-free nutshell): After his father's death, 9 year old song leaves his village in China in order to find work to support his starving family. After a long and perilous journey by boat he arrives in British Guiana. Song faces horrific racism and prejudice, but has a determined spirit, and the ability to make friends in unexpected places, in a story that is both inspirational and heartbreaking.
The author: Michelle Jana Chan, an accomplished travel writer - the sense of place throughout the novel makes it come alive.
It's a bit like...an echo of modern day stories of migrants.
You should read it if...you are a keen bird watcher. Feel free to do a shot of something each time a new species is mentioned, and have a merry old time.
You shouldn't read it if...you are out of tissues.
The best bit: The wonderfully crafted writing, never leaving you without a sense of hope even in the bleakest of times.
Book hangover severity: Song's story plants itself deep within and refuses to let go...
Rating 5/5
Final thoughts: Few books that are entirely set in the past can resonate so much with issues of the modern day. Slavery has long been (officially) abolished but that's about the only difference between those exploited by the British Empire in the time that Song takes place and the current day. A deeply thought provoking and beautiful novel.
Song is published on 28th June 2018 by Unbound. Thank you to Michelle Jana Chan, Unbound and NetGalley for the ARC
The plot (in a spoiler-free nutshell): After his father's death, 9 year old song leaves his village in China in order to find work to support his starving family. After a long and perilous journey by boat he arrives in British Guiana. Song faces horrific racism and prejudice, but has a determined spirit, and the ability to make friends in unexpected places, in a story that is both inspirational and heartbreaking.
The author: Michelle Jana Chan, an accomplished travel writer - the sense of place throughout the novel makes it come alive.
It's a bit like...an echo of modern day stories of migrants.
You should read it if...you are a keen bird watcher. Feel free to do a shot of something each time a new species is mentioned, and have a merry old time.
You shouldn't read it if...you are out of tissues.
The best bit: The wonderfully crafted writing, never leaving you without a sense of hope even in the bleakest of times.
Book hangover severity: Song's story plants itself deep within and refuses to let go...
Rating 5/5
Final thoughts: Few books that are entirely set in the past can resonate so much with issues of the modern day. Slavery has long been (officially) abolished but that's about the only difference between those exploited by the British Empire in the time that Song takes place and the current day. A deeply thought provoking and beautiful novel.
Song is published on 28th June 2018 by Unbound. Thank you to Michelle Jana Chan, Unbound and NetGalley for the ARC
December 1, 2018
Thank you a Unbound and Netgalley for an ARC in return for my review.
This was a wonderful book, it was beautifully written and completely drew me in. This is one of my favourite books I have read this year. Set aside uninterrupted time, bring a box of tissues and a pot of tea amd be ready to be mesmerised .
This was a wonderful book, it was beautifully written and completely drew me in. This is one of my favourite books I have read this year. Set aside uninterrupted time, bring a box of tissues and a pot of tea amd be ready to be mesmerised .
June 28, 2021
(Note: I received a copy of this work courtesy of NetGalley)
Michelle Jana Chan’s Song begins with the title’s namesake journeying from his impoverished village in rural China to British Guyana, where he arrives in the British colony with literally little more than the shirt on his back. What proceeds from there is his saga of working to build a life worth living for himself while jumping back and forth between potentially the dangerous yet mineral-rich lands upriver in the jungles, the rough frontier streets of Bartica, and ever-pretentious, prejudice-ridden Georgetown.
Song and its setting in lush 19th-century British Guyana literally took me to a world that I literally have never been to before. Meanwhile, the title character’s successes and hardships that he encounters as an immigrant outsider also showed me a new lens for a world that I have already encountered all too many times before. And between this mix of the new and also the unexpectedly familiar, I was more than happy to get completely and utterly lost in this beautiful and gutwrenching tale.
Michelle Jana Chan’s Song begins with the title’s namesake journeying from his impoverished village in rural China to British Guyana, where he arrives in the British colony with literally little more than the shirt on his back. What proceeds from there is his saga of working to build a life worth living for himself while jumping back and forth between potentially the dangerous yet mineral-rich lands upriver in the jungles, the rough frontier streets of Bartica, and ever-pretentious, prejudice-ridden Georgetown.
Song and its setting in lush 19th-century British Guyana literally took me to a world that I literally have never been to before. Meanwhile, the title character’s successes and hardships that he encounters as an immigrant outsider also showed me a new lens for a world that I have already encountered all too many times before. And between this mix of the new and also the unexpectedly familiar, I was more than happy to get completely and utterly lost in this beautiful and gutwrenching tale.
April 17, 2021
Here, Michelle Jana Chan tells the story of Song, a young boy who leaves his impoverished family in rural China in order to find his fortune in the British Guyana of the late nineteenth century. We follow his story over the decades that follow.
I found the first half of the book, dealing with Song’s childhood and journey to Guyana to be absolutely captivating. The descriptions are excellent, painting a visceral picture both of Song’s lengthy sea journey and of Guyana and its local people and wildlife. The character of Father Holmes is extremely well written and his interactions with Song are really do engage.
The second half of the book, however, was very much a disappointment to me. I felt that the plot lost its drive and focus, whilst the characters suddenly felt paper thin. The book also ended very abruptly with no crescendo or resolution beforehand. Ultimately I came away from the book feeling decidedly underwhelmed.
No book resonates with every single reader; regrettably this one wasn’t for me.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Unbound for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I found the first half of the book, dealing with Song’s childhood and journey to Guyana to be absolutely captivating. The descriptions are excellent, painting a visceral picture both of Song’s lengthy sea journey and of Guyana and its local people and wildlife. The character of Father Holmes is extremely well written and his interactions with Song are really do engage.
The second half of the book, however, was very much a disappointment to me. I felt that the plot lost its drive and focus, whilst the characters suddenly felt paper thin. The book also ended very abruptly with no crescendo or resolution beforehand. Ultimately I came away from the book feeling decidedly underwhelmed.
No book resonates with every single reader; regrettably this one wasn’t for me.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Unbound for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2018
Song blew my mind. I LOVED this book! Such vivid historical pictures of different places in the world! Song's determination to make it and save his family is heart wrenching.
October 11, 2018
I very much enjoyed this story about a young boy who leaves China by boat to journey to Guiana in search of a better life. Song begins his adventure as a naive child but soon realizes this is no fairytale. Songs character is forged by his experiences, both good and bad, to turn him into the person he becomes warts and all.
I enjoyed that Song really develops before our eyes. He is not and angel nor is he jaded by his experiences to become bitter and angry. He is believable.
I knew little to nothing about the time period or Guiana and found this a nice introduction and wet my appetite to learn more.
I would love to read a story featuring Flo as the MC.
Thanks to Unbound for providing the venue for publishing this book.
I enjoyed that Song really develops before our eyes. He is not and angel nor is he jaded by his experiences to become bitter and angry. He is believable.
I knew little to nothing about the time period or Guiana and found this a nice introduction and wet my appetite to learn more.
I would love to read a story featuring Flo as the MC.
Thanks to Unbound for providing the venue for publishing this book.
June 16, 2018
Overall, Song is a worthy read. It is no simple Horatio Alger tale, but one that is layered with themes of systematic racism, religious hypocrisy, and most importantly, love of family. This is the history of colonial times come alive.
Thank you to NetGalley, Unbound, and Michelle Jana Chan for the advance copy for review.
Full review can be found here: https://paulspicks.blog/2018/04/06/so...
Please check out all my reviews: https://paulspicks.blog
Thank you to NetGalley, Unbound, and Michelle Jana Chan for the advance copy for review.
Full review can be found here: https://paulspicks.blog/2018/04/06/so...
Please check out all my reviews: https://paulspicks.blog
August 12, 2018
This is a brilliant read, utterly gripping! Song is such a compelling character, I couldn't stop turning the pages to see what happened to him next. Devoured the whole book in a weekend. It's both haunting and inspiring, a story of survival and hope. I didn't know anything about Guiana before picking this up, but the descriptions are so vivid that I felt like I was there. Such a powerful book. I highly recommend!
November 22, 2018
Beautiful, descriptive, authentic. Makes you connect with and root for all the characters, however fleeting their time in Song's life. I did not like the shape of the novel in the last few chapters (the themes of discrimination, family in Lishui and Song's middle-age all kept open till the end), sincerely hoping there's a sequel.
March 27, 2021
Song is a young boy when he leaves his impoverished broken family from Lishui Village in China to embark on a remarkable journey across the perilous oceans to the British colony of Guiana. He is courageous and ambitious and wants to find fortune to support the family he left behind. When he arrives in Guiana, he realises that being a foreign immigrant is tough and he is forced to work in the sugar plantations.
We follow his journey through hardships and tragedies, but also luck and love, and a desire to seek belonging and to find his identity in a foreign land he calls home.
💭This a beautifully written and atmospheric story that you can’t help but be swept away by the tales of Song’s travels and experiences. The details of Song’s difficult travel across the seas were vivid and captivating that I felt the claustrophobia, the fear and the excitement of embarking on such a voyage. I was willing for Song to survive and make it out alive against all odds to this new land, Guiana, that inspires dreams of gold and diamonds galore.
Song is immediately likeable. I felt his anger, frustration and disappointment at all the hardships and suffering he endures because he is an outsider and he cannot shed the circumstances of his birth and where he came from. This book also brings to life the cruelty and oppression of British colonial power during the mid-1800s. I really admired how Song deals with ongoing prejudices aimed at him and his family, and it makes you believe that good things can happen to people born with nothing if you chase your dreams and fight for them.
⚖️ Such a moving and inspiring story brimming with emotion and courage. I was also transported to far away lands of rainforests and exotic birds - a great escapism making me dream of travelling!
We follow his journey through hardships and tragedies, but also luck and love, and a desire to seek belonging and to find his identity in a foreign land he calls home.
💭This a beautifully written and atmospheric story that you can’t help but be swept away by the tales of Song’s travels and experiences. The details of Song’s difficult travel across the seas were vivid and captivating that I felt the claustrophobia, the fear and the excitement of embarking on such a voyage. I was willing for Song to survive and make it out alive against all odds to this new land, Guiana, that inspires dreams of gold and diamonds galore.
Song is immediately likeable. I felt his anger, frustration and disappointment at all the hardships and suffering he endures because he is an outsider and he cannot shed the circumstances of his birth and where he came from. This book also brings to life the cruelty and oppression of British colonial power during the mid-1800s. I really admired how Song deals with ongoing prejudices aimed at him and his family, and it makes you believe that good things can happen to people born with nothing if you chase your dreams and fight for them.
⚖️ Such a moving and inspiring story brimming with emotion and courage. I was also transported to far away lands of rainforests and exotic birds - a great escapism making me dream of travelling!
March 30, 2021
Received this book from Netgalley! Yay Netgalley!
This one is a hard one to review. I enjoyed the experience of reading the book, for the most part, but was left frustrated by the end.
What I enjoyed were the descriptions of life in Guyana in this time period; the local cast of characters, the cost of colonialism, and the role of the "pork knockers" looking for gold. The first half of the book is slower paced, and more focused on drawing you into the setting, which I certainly enjoyed.
The latter half is faster paced; Song ages years from chapter to chapter, and jumps between locations frequently. This is where it started to lose me. I understand having flawed protagonists, but I truly don't know whether the author wanted us to root for Song or not. Furthermore, I have no idea what the author wanted us to take away from the book. Should we take it as a cautionary tale against greed? Should we be convinced that Song lived a life that was a "story worth telling," and that makes up for the casualties along the way, or are we supposed to realize that sometimes pursuing a "story worth telling" can harm ourselves and those around us? I found the ending the opposite of uplifting, and it left me wondering whether I, or Song, had truly learned anything in the process.
This one is a hard one to review. I enjoyed the experience of reading the book, for the most part, but was left frustrated by the end.
What I enjoyed were the descriptions of life in Guyana in this time period; the local cast of characters, the cost of colonialism, and the role of the "pork knockers" looking for gold. The first half of the book is slower paced, and more focused on drawing you into the setting, which I certainly enjoyed.
The latter half is faster paced; Song ages years from chapter to chapter, and jumps between locations frequently. This is where it started to lose me. I understand having flawed protagonists, but I truly don't know whether the author wanted us to root for Song or not. Furthermore, I have no idea what the author wanted us to take away from the book. Should we take it as a cautionary tale against greed? Should we be convinced that Song lived a life that was a "story worth telling," and that makes up for the casualties along the way, or are we supposed to realize that sometimes pursuing a "story worth telling" can harm ourselves and those around us? I found the ending the opposite of uplifting, and it left me wondering whether I, or Song, had truly learned anything in the process.
June 2, 2021
Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Song is an unusual story following the fortunes of a young Chinese boy as he searches for a better life for himself in late 19th century British Guiana. The descriptions of life in these melting pot towns and upriver prospecting for gold were really vivid.
Song himself is a complex character, moving from being a likeable boy to a determined man. While I didn't like all aspects of his personality it certainly made him feel true to life. The story is simply structured, following Song's life and development and along the way interrogating many of his decisions.
I mostly enjoyed this book although at times it did feel a little long, and though many of the characters were distinctive, there were quite a few of them to keep track of and a dramatis personae might have been helpful.
Song is an unusual story following the fortunes of a young Chinese boy as he searches for a better life for himself in late 19th century British Guiana. The descriptions of life in these melting pot towns and upriver prospecting for gold were really vivid.
Song himself is a complex character, moving from being a likeable boy to a determined man. While I didn't like all aspects of his personality it certainly made him feel true to life. The story is simply structured, following Song's life and development and along the way interrogating many of his decisions.
I mostly enjoyed this book although at times it did feel a little long, and though many of the characters were distinctive, there were quite a few of them to keep track of and a dramatis personae might have been helpful.
January 23, 2024
One of the best books I've ever read, despite feeling like a failure compared to the 20-year-old entrepreneur amassing a fortune, owning a house and generally surviving.
A sweeping historical epic following a young boy who slowly loses his idealism due to the cruelty of British colonials as well as a soul-destroying voyage. As Song becomes adamant that he will thrive and succeed in his new home, he lightens the lives of everyone he meets through his sincerity and drive to achieve.
Selfishly, I wish there was more. I wanted to know what Song got up to after he gave up the mine and what happened with his children. But at the same time, I wouldn't change a thing and I love that there's still so much to the story not in the scope of the book.
A sweeping historical epic following a young boy who slowly loses his idealism due to the cruelty of British colonials as well as a soul-destroying voyage. As Song becomes adamant that he will thrive and succeed in his new home, he lightens the lives of everyone he meets through his sincerity and drive to achieve.
Selfishly, I wish there was more. I wanted to know what Song got up to after he gave up the mine and what happened with his children. But at the same time, I wouldn't change a thing and I love that there's still so much to the story not in the scope of the book.
April 11, 2021
The author uses simple language to tell a mostly engaging story. I'd characterize this as literature, and does not contain action scenes. It includes some very interesting characters and includes some resilient characters. Amazon categorized this as a textbook, so it must be used in some schools. The author's talent shines here, and I look forward to her future work.
I really appreciate the ARC for review!!
I really appreciate the ARC for review!!
March 31, 2021
A 9-year-old boy, hoping to support his family, leaves them and crosses the ocean. After enduring a horrific voyage, Song arrives in British Guiana where he undergoes more strife and heartache in his quest for a successful life.
November 25, 2023
A praise-worthy bildungsroman. Both classic and novel in its characters and motifs.
April 17, 2019
A vividly-rendered reminder of the perils and tragedies that come with migration - this book was so painfully beautiful, it has stayed with me.
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