Brothers - Da Chen

[yifu]

Title: Brothers
Author: Da Chen
Publisher/Year: Shaye Areheart Books, 2006
Amazon link

Brothers is set in China during the second half of the twentieth century. It follows the story of Shento and Tan, two sons of the same father. Shento is born and raised in a remote village, until his foster parents are killed and he is stranded in an orphanage. Meanwhile, Tan, the legitimate child, grows up in a house of power and privilege. The end of Mao Zedong's reign brings about tremendous changes in their lives and leads to the crossing of their paths.

As a story it's not terribly original but still makes for an engaging journey. I like how the point of view switches back and forth between Shento and Tan without confusing the reader (this reader, at least). The details, both physical and emotional, are described clearly and sometimes lyrically.