Just finished this wonderful book of historical fiction. I wished there had been just a few more words at the end----or an epilogue! This book was translated from Spanish---the author was raised in Chili, but now lives in California. This is what the back of the book says:
"An orphan raised in Valparaiso, Chili by a Victorian spinster & her rigid brother, young vivacious follows her lover to California during the Gold Rush of 1849. She enters a rough-and-tumble world whose newly arrived inhabitants are drivin mad my gold fever. A society of single men and prostitutes among whom Eliza moves---with the help of her good friend and savior, the Chinese doctor Tao Chi'en----California opens the door to a new life of freedom and independence for the young Chilean. Her search for the elusive lover gradually turns into another kind of journey, and by the time she finally hears news of him, Eliza must decide who her true love really is."
I learned a lot about this historical time while reading the book (I obviously never paid attention in school!), and was surprised that so many people from all over the WORLD came to California during this time. The biggest problems CA had during this time was the influx of foreigners, crime, and fires. (Gee---sounds, the same, huh?) Interesting reading and a good story.
A Life Not Wasted
12 years ago
1 comment:
Okay... Mom, I had already read your review and yes, I agree. It is amazing to me how California got its start and how similar in some ways it is today. I too would have liked more closure at the end... but I suppose we are led to a probable conclusion...This book portrays a vastly different (much harder) life than The Harvey Girls.. (which is a musical about the gold rush I think when they bring out "respectable girls" to be waitresses as opposed to the girls across the street. Judy Garland... pretty "light" compared to this version. I may do some further research.
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