The Lady and Sada San A Sequel to the Lady of the Decoration   By: Frances Little (1863-1941)

The Lady and Sada San by Frances Little is a beautiful sequel to the renowned novel, The Lady of the Decoration. Set against the vivid backdrop of Japan, this book takes readers on a mesmerizing journey filled with love, sacrifice, and self-discovery.

The story revolves around the protagonist, the Lady, who after living a sheltered life in the United States, embarks on a remarkable adventure to Japan. As she immerses herself in the rich culture and customs of this enchanting country, she encounters Sada San, a young woman who becomes her confidante, guide, and friend.

Frances Little intricately captures the essence of Japanese society, painting a vivid picture of the breathtaking landscapes, traditional ceremonies, and deep-rooted traditions. The descriptions are so detailed and vivid that readers will feel transported to the streets of Japan, experiencing every emotion and sensation alongside the characters.

The strong character development is one of the novel's strongest points. The Lady's growth from a naive, sheltered woman to a confident, independent explorer is inspiring. Her bond with Sada San is heartwarming, showing the power of true friendship transcending cultural boundaries. The complexities of their relationship are beautifully portrayed, showcasing the conflicts and bonds that arise when two individuals from different backgrounds come together.

The author's writing style is engaging and evocative, transporting readers through a rollercoaster of emotions. The narrative flows smoothly, weaving together different threads of the story without ever feeling disjointed. Frances Little's storytelling keeps readers hooked from the first page till the last, leaving them craving for more.

One aspect that truly stands out is the exploration of themes such as gender roles, societal expectations, and the clash between tradition and modernity. Through the eyes of the Lady, readers gain insight into the struggles faced by Japanese women of that era, and the Lady’s determination to challenge these norms is both inspiring and thought-provoking.

However, there are instances where the pacing slows down, and certain subplots could have been trimmed to maintain the overall momentum. Additionally, some characters lack depth and dimension, making them feel secondary to the central story.

Overall, The Lady and Sada San beautifully captures the spirit of Japan while delivering a captivating story of self-discovery and friendship. Frances Little's vivid descriptions, compelling characters, and exploration of cultural themes make this sequel a worthy companion to The Lady of the Decoration. This book is highly recommended for readers who crave an immersive journey through both the physical and emotional landscapes of another culture.

First Page:

What do you think that same Jack has "gone and done"! Of course he is right. That is the provoking part of Jack; it always turns out that he is in the right. Two months ago he went to some place in China which, from its ungodly name, should be in the furthermost parts of a wilderness. Perhaps you have snatched enough time from guarding the kiddies from a premature end in Como to read a headline or so in the home papers. If by some wonderful chance, between baby prattle, bumps and measles, they have given you a moment's respite, then you know that the Government has grown decidedly restless for fear the energetic and enterprising bubonic or pneumonic germ might take passage on some of the ships from the Orient... Continue reading book >>