Readers > Talk it Up! > Discussion guides > Ties that Bind, Ties that Break
Ties that Bind, Ties that Break by Lensey Namioka
Summary
Ailin is born into the Tao family at a time when China is in great turmoil. The foreigners, known as the "Foreign Big Noses," are eroding the empire by bringing in Western philosophies. More spirited than her older sisters, 5-year-old Ailin refuses to have her feet bound, causing the family of her intended husband to break the marriage agreement. Though an excellent student, Ailin seems doomed to a life of servitude and "low standing" until she is introduced to an American missionary family. At fourteen she becomes the amah, or governess, for the Warner children and embarks on a new life that grants her happiness far beyond her dreams.
Book talk
Ailin, a wealthy Chinese girl in 1911, tells of the changes the Chinese Revolution has brought in her household, her battle with her mother and grandmother over bound feet and her struggle to stay in school though her family disapproves as many thought that girls did not need an outside education.
Read p. 38 ("That night Mother and the maids brought the strips...) through 39(finish with "I would never walk naturally again.).
Then when she learns to read and write not only Chinese, but English! More and more, Ailin realizes that a girl from a good family is powerless in Chinese society if she has no prospect of marriage. What does she do? What can she do?
Discussion questions
- Discuss Ailin's relationship with her father and grandmother. What is her relationship with her mother? How does Ailin's life change after her father dies?
- Why does Second Sister feel that she must warn Ailin of the dangers of being different?
- Ailin and her friend Xueyan are alike in many ways. How is Xueyan's family more supportive than Ailin's family?
- Ailin rebels against many ancient Chinese customs. How is change the result of rebellion? How is James also fighting a war against traditional Chinese customs and values? Suppose Ailin and James have children. Do you think their children will be taught Chinese customs and culture?
- Ailin doubts that she would ever again be allowed in the family compound. Do you think Ailin might ever return to China for a visit. If so, what would she say to them?
- How do Ailin's father's values differ from those of Big Uncle?
- Ailin is high-spirited, headstrong, and defiant, and her father supports her determination not to get her feet bound. How does it take courage for her to resist the wishes of her elders? How does it take courage for him to stand up to Big Uncle? Discuss other times in the novel that Ailin displays courage. Does it take more courage for her to remain in the United States or to return to her native land?
If you liked this book try
- Chinese Cinderella by Adeline Yen Mah
- Nisei Daughter by Monica Itoi Sone
- The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan
Portions of this guide are credited to Random House Teacher's Guide for Ties that Bind, Ties that Break.
Created in part with funds granted by the Oregon State Library under the Library Services and Technology Act, administered by the Oregon State Library. Send feedback to Katie O'Dell, Reading Promotions Coordinator