Half of the group liked it--interesting and liked the cultural aspects. The other part of the group thought it was slow and gloomy.

I couldn't put it down. I loved the author's characters. They were all very real and beleivable. The way the main chracter deals with her life and family problems is something that many of us can relate to.

Caution: Don't read the book flap if possible, it gives away too much informaiton.