I always feel that reading fiction, especially historical fiction, educates me about humanity and the society we live in today, as well as teaching me about the past. I especially felt that reading The Brightest Star, the new novel by bestselling author Gail Tsukiyama.
The Brightest Star is such an illuminating narrative as it tells the lost story of Anna May Wong, the ground breaking Hollywood actress who was the first and only Asian American woman to find world fame in the early days of the movie industry. I say lost story as although some people may know of Anna May Wong, I doubt that the majority of people will. I certainly was not aware of this trailblazing actress until being introduced to this moving novel. Yet I, as like many other people, know of Anna’s peers including Marlene Dietrich and Douglas Fairbanks. This compelling novel, which is a powerful portrayal of the prejudice and racism Anna faced, actually also includes a love affair between Anna May Wong and Marlene Dietrich…
I don’t know why I am surprised by my reaction to this compelling and very moving novel, as blatant ignorance, division and discrimination still happens today; yet I am shocked and saddened by Anna May Wong’s story. The exclusion, hypocrisy and betrayal she was forced to encounter in the pursuit of her dream is horrific, as was the denial to be accepted within Hollywood, America and also China. For example, being Chinese American and the anti-miscegenation laws meant that she was not allowed to kiss any Caucasian male actors she was starring with, hence Anna was repeatedly denied the leading female roles. This was even the case when the leading roles were Chinese characters. Instead Hollywood chose Caucasian actresses wearing yellowface for these roles!
Born in Los Angeles in 1905, Anna was a third-generation American from a Chinese family. Her Chinese heritage and culture was very important to Anna and her family, especially to her father who she often clashed with in her pursuit to achieve and maintain stardom.
Anna was a modern woman and definitely born before her time. She was a true trailblazer, a fashion icon and one of the best actresses of her time. She had real grit, determination and courage. Even though I have finished reading The Brightest Star, my awe and fascination for Anna has definitely not dimmed. For example, on the internet I have very recently found old clips of Anna in some of her films. These old clips from the silent movie era have completely captivated me!
If you love anything about old Hollywood and the movie industry, I really recommend you read this book.
Thank you Anne Cater from Random Things Tours for inviting me to the blog tour of The Brightest Star. To follow the tour, please see below.
The Brightest Star was published in paperback on 5 August 2024.
Thanks for the blog tour support x