As the earth turns silver: a novel

This first novel by poet Alison Wong is set in Wellington between 1905 and 1920. It is beautifully written, almost poetic but it deals with real life, real politics and tragic situations. There are descriptions of Chinatown, its inhabitants and activities, and the issues that it raises, racism and sexism, are still relevant today. There are flashbacks to life in China that help to explain the feelings of the characters and there are portraits of influential New Zealanders of the time, but the beauty of the story is in the love affair between Katherine and Yung. This book is a glimpse into one aspect of New Zealand history and a chance for readers to explore their own reactions to difference.

PK