Tender, Thoughtful, and Culturally Rich, The Moon Goddess's Smile is a Stunning Debut of a Cross-gen

1888PressRelease) "An observant and emotional authentic novel of homecoming...characters are memorable...a distinctive voice...striking sensory quality..." - Kirkus Reviews Magazine, July 1, 2025

Boston, MA-NH - Ever tried to fix a simple problem and ended up questioning your entire life? The heroine in The Moon Goddess's Smile takes exactly such a journey.

A biomedical researcher returns to China to transfer her late grandmother’s apartment to her male cousin so he can marry. But what should be a quick legal move turns into a web of red tape. Meanwhile, her interracial marriage in Boston begins to unravel. Wobbling between two cultures, she must figure out who she is before rescuing her nuclear and extended families.

This heartfelt book is loaded with family dramas between colorful, flawed characters. But it’s also about the clash between old and new, East and West, tradition and change.

The delicately layered story centers on a Chinese family that has endured horrific events over the last century. It vividly illustrates how ordinary people can find strength and wisdom during crises: by holding on, letting go, and learning to see life from different perspectives.

Wu does a stellar job weaves history and the present together in a refreshing way. Even small gestures, such as a smile from the tragic Moon Goddess, carry profound meanings. The mix of personal and cultural challenges propels the story forward, keeping readers guessing.

The Moon Goddess's Smile is out now and waiting to be discovered. If you’re looking for a quietly powerful story with heart, a bit of snark, and plenty to think about after you turn the last page, this one is for you.

https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/catherine-c-wu/the-moon-goddesss-smile/

https://independentbookreview.com/2025/04/01/starred-book-review-the-moon-goddesss-smile/

https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/the-moon-goddesss-smile