In her debut novel, Shanghailanders, Juli Min meticulously weaves a narrative that explores the intricacies of family dynamics and the impact of secrets on relationships. Set in the year 2040, Leo Yang has just seen off his wife, Eko, and their two oldest daughters at the Shanghai airport. The girls, headed back to their school in Boston, are seasoned travelers, but this time, Eko chose to accompany them, leaving Leo puzzled about her true motivations.

Secrets and Family Dynamics

As Leo grapples with questions surrounding Eko’s decision, Min delves into the personal histories and secrets of each family member. Eko’s mysterious behavior prompts Leo to reflect on past events. “What was she hiding, then, the true motivation for going away?” he wonders. This uncertainty sets the stage for a broader exploration of the Yang family’s story, capturing the nuanced and often hidden moments that define their relationships.

A Pan-Asian Family’s Journey

The characters’ cultural backgrounds significantly influence their interactions and values. Eko, of Japanese descent yet raised in France, and Leo, who is Chinese, embody a blend of traditions and experiences. Through their stories and those of their three daughters, Min highlights the family’s pan-Asian identity and how geography shapes their perceptions.

Unique Narrative Structure

Employing an unconventional structure, Min’s chapters resemble interconnected short stories, each offering a glimpse into significant moments in the Yang family’s lives. From a special bond between father and daughter to a mother’s penchant for overspending, these vignettes collectively paint a detailed portrait of a marriage. By shifting perspectives between characters and moving back in time, Min masterfully reveals the layers of Leo and Eko’s relationship, from their early days to the present tension evident in 2040.

Shanghailanders is a compelling exploration of how small moments and hidden truths shape who a family becomes. Through her thoughtful and detailed writing, Juli Min provides readers with an engaging and insightful journey into the heart of the Yang family.