The Piano Teacher
The Piano Teacher
Book Brief
Beta288
Novel • Fiction
Hong Kong • 1950s
2004
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Piano Teacher by Janice Y.K. Lee follows the intersecting lives of Claire Pendleton, a piano instructor, and Will Truesdale, a British expatriate, in 1950s Hong Kong. Their past and present unravel amidst the backdrop of war and cultural upheaval, revealing complexities in love, identity, and survival.
Reviews & Readership
15,086 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Piano Teacher by Janice Y.K. Lee offers a captivating narrative set in 1950s Hong Kong, masterfully weaving a tale of love, betrayal, and the lasting impact of World War II. Critics praise its lush prose and compelling characters. Some, however, find the pacing uneven and the resolution lacking depth. Overall, it's a powerful and evocative read.
Who Should Read The Piano Teacher?
Readers who relish historical fiction with rich, layered storytelling, akin to The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and The English Patient by Michael Ondaatje, will appreciate The Piano Teacher by Janice Y.K. Lee. Ideal for those fascinated by wartime romances, complex characters, and the evocative setting of 1940s Hong Kong.
15,086 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Piano Teacher by Janice Y.K. Lee was largely inspired by the author's own experiences living in Hong Kong, as well as stories she heard about the city's history during World War II.
Janice Y.K. Lee took five years to write The Piano Teacher, which eventually became a bestseller, particularly resonating with readers interested in historical fiction set in Hong Kong.
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Before turning to novel writing, Janice Y.K. Lee worked as an editor at Elle magazine, where she honed her skills in storytelling and publishing.
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288
Novel • Fiction
Hong Kong • 1950s
2004
Adult
18+ years
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