Like Spilled Water

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Pub Date 01 Sep 2020 | Archive Date 30 Sep 2020
Lerner Publishing Group | Carolrhoda Lab ®

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Description

Nineteen-year-old Na has always lived in the shadow of her younger brother, Bao-bao, her parents' cherished son. Years ago, Na's parents left her in the countryside and went to work in the city, bringing Bao-bao along and committing everything to his education.

But when Bao-bao dies suddenly, Na realizes how little she knew him. Did he really kill himself because of a low score on China's all-important college entrance exam? Na learns that Bao-bao had many secrets and that his death may not be what it seems. Na's parents expect her to quit her vocational school and go to work, forcing Na to confront traditional expectations for and pressures on young women.

Nineteen-year-old Na has always lived in the shadow of her younger brother, Bao-bao, her parents' cherished son. Years ago, Na's parents left her in the countryside and went to work in the city...


Advance Praise

"[F]ilters detailed depictions of filial piety, funeral rites, grief, romantic relationships, and parental support through a modern teenager's perspective. . . . Will lead readers through a quiet revolution."—Kirkus Reviews


"Full of suspense and honesty, Like Spilled Water is an illuminating and heartrending examination of cultural norms, gender roles, and the complexity of family relationships in China today." —Amber Smith, New York Times bestselling author of The Way I Used to Be and The Last to Let Go


"Family obligations, personal desires, and secret lives collide in this tense yet graceful novel about a girl seeking the truth behind her brother's unexpected death."—Amelia Brunskill, author of The Window


"An immersive, riveting book...Liu weaves an inspiring story through compelling characters."—Jennifer Moffett, author of Those Who Prey

"[F]ilters detailed depictions of filial piety, funeral rites, grief, romantic relationships, and parental support through a modern teenager's perspective. . . . Will lead readers through a quiet...


Available Editions

EDITION Other Format
ISBN 9781541572904
PRICE $18.99 (USD)
PAGES 216

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Featured Reviews

Like Spilled Water is an honest and unflinching story about the family, tradition and discovering who you are, rather than what your family thinks you are. An absorbing and thought provoking read.

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This book appealed to me and is relevant for my 7th grade class. Each year I do a close read using an article "China's Cram Schools", which describes the Gaokao and the stress the students are under. This book will give my students a glimpse into the lives of those affected. It also gives them insight into the Chinese culture and should create empathy for the situation and perhaps a sense of gratefulness for the educational freedom and varied options they have. I thought this book dealt with some sensitive issues as well, but kept the focus on the importance of this test on the lives and futures of China's youth.

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