burden of knowledge

MIDNIGHT AT THE DRAGON CAFE
by Judy Fong Bates

This is a terrific, page-turner of a first novel from Judy Fong Bates, who has previously published a book of short stories. Set in the 1950s, the novel tells the story of a young Chinese girl, Su-Jen, who immigrates with her family to a small Ontario town where they open a Chinese restaurant. Su-Jen gradually integrates into her adoptive society, learning perfect English, befriending local girls, and doing well in school. Read more…