Saving Fish from Drowning

by Amy Tan
Saving Fish from Drowning cover
Good Books rating 3.5
Magical Realism
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Paperback • £14.99
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  • ID: 10721
  • Added: 2026-02-02
  • Updated: 2026-02-03
  • ISBN: 9781440627606
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published: 2005-10-18
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Saving Fish from Drowning follows an ill-fated art expedition into the southern Shan state of Burma, where eleven Americans disappear into the jungle. Their encounter with a tribe awaiting a leader and a mythical book of wisdom sets the stage for a morality tale about the consequences of intentions. The novel seduces readers with Buddhist illusions and light comedy, ultimately delving into the shared responsibility individuals must accept for the actions of others. /n/n The narrative is rich with twists of fate, curses, and human error, creating a gripping story that explores the complexities of good and bad intentions. Through the lens of a pious man's paradoxical actions, the story questions the true nature of saving and the ethical dilemmas that arise from well-intentioned deeds.

Reviews
Clari's Lam · 2026-02-03
engaging 4.00

The character of Bibi is particularly liked, and the book's perspective on tourists and their journey is engaging. The settings and cultural insights add depth to the story.

This reviewer found the character of Bibi to be particularly compelling, as her perspective offers a unique view of the tourists and their journey. The settings and cultural insights are richly detailed, adding depth to the story. The narrative style is engaging, and the cultural dislocations provide a layer of humor that enhances the reading experience. While the book may not be a traditional comedy, the cultural insights and character development make it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    I liked the character of Bibi.

    The book takes place in her perspective as of how she views the tourists and their journey, as well as the places they go to.

    The story is engaging and the cultural insights are richly detailed.

Goodreads · 2026-02-03
enjoyable 3.50

Despite some negative reviews, the novel was enjoyed for its engaging narrative and characters. The story's unique perspective and cultural insights were particularly appreciated.

This reader initially hesitated to pick up the book due to its mixed reviews but found themselves thoroughly enjoying it. The novel's unique narrative style, told from the perspective of a deceased woman, adds a layer of intrigue that keeps the reader engaged. The characters are quirky and well-developed, and the cultural insights woven into the story provide a rich backdrop. While some critics might find the plot ambitious, this reader found it to be a refreshing departure from Tan's usual themes, making it a worthwhile read.

Quick quotes

    I put off reading this book for a long time because of the horrible reviews.

    I can see some of the reviewers points, but overall, I really enjoyed this novel.

    Her characters were quirky, strange, and engaging.

The New York Times · 2005-10-16
mixed 3.00

The book has clever moments and good one-liners, but humor is not Tan's forte. The narrative is engaging, but the comedy falls flat.

This reviewer found the book to have clever moments and some good one-liners, but overall, humor is not Tan's strong suit. The narrative is engaging, and the characters are well-developed, but the attempt at comedy falls flat. The story is a departure from Tan's usual themes, and while it has its moments, it doesn't fully succeed in its comedic elements. The cultural insights and character development are strong points, but the humor feels forced and out of place.

Quick quotes

    The book has clever moments and some good one-liners, but none of Tan's books is funny; humor is not her forte.

    The narrator in Amy Tan's Saving Fish from Drowning is stuck in the gap between aspiration and achievement.

    Having said that, Saving Fish from Drowning is engaging and enjoyable.

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