This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. The Good Earth

   

   This novel tells the story of a poor farmer in rural China, who struggles to survive and prosper. Over time, he manages to build a life for himself and his family, eventually becoming a wealthy landowner. However, his newfound wealth and status lead to a moral decline, as he becomes disconnected from the land that gave him everything. The narrative explores themes of wealth, poverty, and the human connection to the earth.

   The 281st Greatest Book of All Time

   Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon

2. 2. Pavilion Of Women

   

   The novel presents the story of a wealthy Chinese woman who, upon reaching her 40th birthday, decides to change the course of her life. She arranges a concubine for her husband to take over her marital duties and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and liberation. Throughout the narrative, she explores the constraints of traditional roles and the possibilities of intellectual and spiritual freedom, forming a deep connection with a foreign missionary. This relationship challenges her beliefs and the societal norms of the time, leading her to question the very foundations of her existence and her place in the world.

   The 6606th Greatest Book of All Time

   Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon

3. 3. East Wind

   West Wind

   

   The novel tells the story of Kwei-lan, a young Chinese woman who is navigating the complexities of tradition and modernity in early 20th-century China. Raised in a traditional household, she is married to a Western-educated Chinese doctor, who challenges her deeply ingrained beliefs and customs. Through her journey, Kwei-lan learns to reconcile her cultural heritage with the new ideas and practices introduced by her husband, ultimately finding a balance between the old and the new. The narrative explores themes of cultural conflict, adaptation, and the transformative power of love and understanding.

   The 7663rd Greatest Book of All Time

   Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon

4. 4. The Mother

   

   The story revolves around a resilient and determined woman living in rural China, who faces numerous hardships after her husband abandons the family. She struggles to provide for her children and maintain their dignity amidst poverty and societal expectations. Through her unwavering strength and resourcefulness, she navigates the challenges of survival, motherhood, and the changing dynamics of her community, ultimately embodying the enduring spirit of maternal love and sacrifice.

   The 8975th Greatest Book of All Time

   Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
5. 5. Other Gods

   

   Other Gods examines a troubled marriage. Pearl S. Buck contrasts adoration and love, showing how different forms of devotion shape the relationship. The novel explores emotional tensions and the gap between idealized worship and sustained affection. Through close attention to the partners' interactions, Buck probes what each seeks and what each can give, revealing the complexities of intimacy and expectation.

   The 15779th Greatest Book of All Time

6. 6. Imperial Woman

   

   Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing China, this historical novel delves into the life of Tzu Hsi, the last Empress of China, who rose from a low-ranking concubine to become the de facto ruler of the Qing Dynasty. Through her eyes, readers witness the intricate court politics, personal sacrifices, and the relentless pursuit of power that defined her reign. The narrative explores her complex character, revealing a woman of ambition, intelligence, and resilience, who navigated the turbulent waters of tradition and modernization while striving to maintain her country's sovereignty in the face of foreign pressures.

   The 16801st Greatest Book of All Time

   Purchase from Amazon