The Third Son

Set in Taiwan, this novel made the history of this country come alive.  Through the story of Saburo, I began to understand some of the history I've heard bits and pieces of.  Beginning during the Japanese occupation, through the invasion of Chiang Kai Shek and into the transition of Chinese rule, a boy, Saburo, grows up.  He meets his wife and leaves her behind to pursue a rare opportunity at University education in America.  Eventually she is able to join him and begin a new life.  Through their stories I began to understand some of the culture and historic events that have formed the people of Taiwan.

I highly recommend this book if you live in Taiwan.  You will visit sights you've seen, food you've tasted and events you've heard about will come alive.