Amy Tan to read in Seattle

Amy Tan

Author Amy Tan will read from and sign copies of her new book, “The Valley of Amazement,” published by Harper, at a book signing at the University Temple United Methodist Church in Seattle, on Dec. 5, at 7 p.m.

Tan is on a book tour to promote her new book, which follows the intertwined fates of two women and their search for identity through the lavish parlors of Shanghai to the foggy mountains of a remote Chinese village.

The story covers more than 40 years and two continents, resurrecting pivotal episodes in history — from the collapse of China’s last imperial dynasty, to the rise of the Republic, the explosive growth of lucrative foreign trade and anti-foreign sentiment, and the inner workings of courtesan houses and the lives of the foreign “Shanghailanders” living in the International Settlement. The deeply evocative narrative about the profound connections between mothers and daughters will return readers to the compelling territory of Tan’s “The Joy Luck Club.” Tan’s characteristic insight and humor conjures a story of “inherited trauma, desire and deception, and the power and stubbornness of love.” (end)

The University Temple Church is located at 1415 N.E. 43rd St. in Seattle. For more information, call 206-545-4359.