Factory Girls by Leslie T. Chang Sunday, 17 October 2010 11:24 Written by Carole

“There was nothing to do at home, so I went out. This is how a migrant story begins.”

China has 130 million migrant workers, the largest migration in human history. Chang tells the story of these workers primarily through the lives of two young women whom she follows over the course of three years as they attempt to rise from the assembly lines in the industrial city of Dongguan.  Chang takes us inside a sneaker factory so large that it has its own hospital, to makeshift English classes where students shave their heads in monk-like devotion, and back to a farming village, revealing the poverty and idleness that drive girls to leave home in the first place.

Having never read anything on this topic I found Factory Girls to be a fascinating insight into the everyday lives of China’s migrant workers.  It was particularly interesting for one book clubber who regularly visits factories as part of her job; though another book clubber felt that there are other better books on the subject (could you write the names of these books in the comments section?).  It focuses on two workers, Min and Chunming, telling us of their dreams and aspirations, their drive and determination to better themselves. 

The chapters dealing with Min’s return visits home  were particularly interesting, highlighting the growing gap between the generations and lifestyles – when Min sets about “civilising” her family, and the amazing role reversals brought about by her earning power and knowledge gained in the city.  Chang includes the story of her own intriguing family history, drawing parallels with the migrant workers.  However this feels out of place and a little disingenuous, especially as Chang’s family seemed to be educated and well-connected.

Next meeting is Thursday 28 October – venue to be decided (keep an eye on the events page).

Next books are:

October: The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larrson

November: The Help by Kathryn Stockett

Comments 

 

#2 Interesting — 2011-01-14 16:41

I am pretty curious to read this book - I read Mao's Last Dancer - it was a lovely book, though poorly edited. The fact that it's a memoir retold with such love and passion helps in understanding the struggle of the common man during Chairman Mao's times.

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#1 Reading it now... — Mirna 2010-10-21 18:13

It's a pretty touching reality...

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