Our book club read “Lady Tan’s Circle of Women” where Lisa See brings to life the true story of Tan Yunxisn, one of China’s first recorded female physicians from 15th century China. Lisa See is so highly skilled in writing historical fiction novels. We learned so much about Chinese society, culture, class, expectations, history and traditions - also, a bit of mystery was woven in.

Enjoyable read made more so by the fact it is based upon a true story set almost 1,000 years ago! Fascinating insight into Chinese medicine, mores and culture of that time.

This is a very well written historical novel about a young woman during the Ming Dynasty who’s grandmother is a physician which goes against the teachings of Confucius; “An educated woman is a worthless woman”.
She eventually discovered that surrounding herself with good, wise women is the key to her inner strength.

So important to know this hard history!!! Love Lisa See!!

Great read. Gives insight into the Chinese culture and Chinese medicine. As a woman of culture in an affluent family she had to follow the “rules” of etiquette, but was able to learn and practice medicine, becoming a very famous doctor. She lived a difficult life in her own right and lived well beyond the average person of her times.

In the author’s notes, I thought it fun that Bana Tea Company has a tea tasting kit for 2 of the teas mentioned in the book that you can order we and serve at a book club meeting and discuss. Very fun.

This is an eye opening book about life for the elite in 15th century China for women. Lisa See paints a vivid picture of Lady Tan and the culture and medical beliefs in China during her life from young girl to matriarch.

the first of this book concentrated a bit too much on the smells of bound feet. I did find it interesting about the role of women as doctors and the way women were diagnosed. And the way women were treated in their role as wife.