Dreams of Joy (Shanghai Girls #2)
by Lisa See
Dreams of Joy by Lisa See holds a highly rated rating of 4.06 out of 5, based on 43.9K reader ratings. First published in 2011. The book spans 354 pages.
About Dreams of Joy
In her most powerful novel yet, acclaimed author Lisa See returns to the story of sisters Pearl and May from Shanghai Girls, and Pearl’s strong-willed nineteen-year-old daughter, Joy. Reeling from newly uncovered family secrets, Joy runs away to Shanghai in early 1957 to find her birth father—the artist Z.G. Li, with whom both May and Pearl were once in love. Dazzled by him, and blinded by idealism and defiance, Joy throws herself into the New Society of Red China, heedless of the dangers in the Communist regime. Devastated by Joy’s flight and terrified for her safety, Pearl is determined to save her daughter, no matter the personal cost. From the crowded city to remote villages, Pearl confronts old demons and almost insurmountable challenges as she follows Joy, hoping for reconciliation. Yet even as Joy’s and Pearl’s separate journeys converge, one of the most tragic episodes in China’s history threatens their very lives.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Author | Lisa See |
| Published | 2011 |
| Pages | 354 |
| Genres | Historical Fiction, Fiction |
| Average Rating | 4.06 / 5.00 |
| Total Ratings | 43,863 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What genre is Dreams of Joy?
Dreams of Joy is categorized as Historical Fiction, Fiction. Its primary genre classification is Historical Fiction.
Is Dreams of Joy worth reading?
Based on 43.9K reader ratings, Dreams of Joy has an average score of 4.06 out of 5.00, which is considered "Highly Rated."
How many pages is Dreams of Joy?
Dreams of Joy has 354 pages.
Who wrote Dreams of Joy?
Dreams of Joy was written by Lisa See. It was first published in 2011.
What is the ISBN for Dreams of Joy?
The ISBN-13 for Dreams of Joy is 9781400067120.0.
Data sourced from community book ratings and reviews. Last updated: April 15, 2026
