Saving Fish from Drowning

by Amy Tan
Saving Fish from Drowning cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Magical Realism
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Paperback • £14.99
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  • ID: 10721
  • Added: 2026-02-02
  • Updated: 2026-02-21
  • ISBN: 9781440627606
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published: 2005-10-18
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Saving Fish from Drowning is a provocative novel by the bestselling author of The Joy Luck Club. The story follows eleven Americans who disappear into the jungle of Burma's southern Shan state during an ill-fated art expedition. Their journey takes a surreal turn as they encounter a tribe awaiting the return of their leader and a mythical book of wisdom that promises protection from the Myanmar military regime. The novel weaves a tapestry of Buddhist illusions, magician's tricks, and light comedy, ultimately spiraling into a gripping morality tale about the consequences of intentions and shared responsibility. /n/n The narrative is rich with cultural insights and philosophical musings, as seen in the parable of a pious man who believes he is saving fish from drowning, only to inadvertently cause their demise. This thought-provoking tale explores the complexities of human actions and their unintended consequences, making it a compelling read for those interested in literary fiction with a touch of magical realism.

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.

Pen in Her Hand · 2011-04-04
positive 4.50

The novel is a delightful blend of myth and narrative, with a satirical edge that makes it stand out. The characters are well-developed and the story is engaging.

The reviewer from Pen in Her Hand loved Tan's trademark fusing of myth to narrative, particularly the satirical vignette detailing how one goes about saving a fish from drowning. The novel is a delightful blend of myth and narrative, with a satirical edge that makes it stand out. The characters are well-developed and the story is engaging, making it a unique and enjoyable read. The reviewer appreciates the humor and the unique perspective that Tan brings to the table, making this novel a standout in her body of work.

Quick quotes

    I loved Tan's trademark fusing of myth to narrative, particularly the satiric vignette detailing how one goes about saving a fish from drowning.

    The novel is a delightful blend of myth and narrative, with a satirical edge that makes it stand out.

    The characters are well-developed and the story is engaging, making it a unique and enjoyable read.

The Independent · 2005-11-18
positive 4.00

The novel is engaging and enjoyable, with warm-hearted humor and characteristically kooky characters. It's a lighthearted read compared to some of Tan's other works.

The reviewer from The Independent found Saving Fish from Drowning to be engaging and enjoyable, with warm-hearted humor and characteristically kooky characters. It's a lighthearted read compared to some of Tan's other works, which can be quite heavy. The novel's unique blend of humor and satire makes it a standout, and the characters are memorable and well-developed. The reviewer appreciates the novel's ability to balance humor and depth, making it a enjoyable read that stands out in Tan's body of work.

Quick quotes

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

    Tan's warm-hearted humour and characteristically kooky characters serve to make this a lighthearted read.

    The novel's unique blend of humor and satire makes it a standout.

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