The Opposite of Fate: Memories of a Writing Life

by Amy Tan
The Opposite of Fate: Memories of a Writing Life cover
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  • ID: 10724
  • Added: 2026-02-02
  • Updated: 2026-02-02
  • Reviews: 4
Reviews
Colorful Book Reviews · 2017-12-14
engaging 4.25

The book is an easy read for fans of the author and provides great insights into her life and writing process. It's a compelling narrative that highlights the author's unique perspective.

This memoir is a delightful read for anyone who appreciates the author's work. It offers a personal and intimate look into her life, making it a compelling narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The author's unique perspective and her ability to weave her personal experiences into her writing make this book a standout. While some sections may be more engaging than others, the overall narrative is a testament to the author's ability to connect with her readers on a deeper level.

Quick quotes

    Tan's fiction is very easy to read and I was pleased to find that she spoke in the same voice for her non-fiction work.

    One of Tan's chapters is particularly insightful.

    With the same spirit and humor that characterize her acclaimed novels, she now shares her insight into her own life.

SteveDRice.net · Stephen Rice · 2015-03-25
mixed 3.50

This book is strongly recommended for fans of Amy Tan's work but may not appeal to others. The writing is insightful but not universally engaging.

Stephen Rice's review highlights that this book is particularly suited to those already familiar with Amy Tan's work. He appreciates the insightful and honest reflections on Tan's writing journey but notes that it might not captivate those who are not already fans. The essays are a mix of humorous and poignant stories, but Rice feels the book doesn't stand alone as a must-read for everyone. He suggests it's more of a niche read for those interested in the evolution of a writer's career.

Quick quotes

    I would suggest this book strongly to anyone familiar with Amy Tan's work but would not suggest it to anyone else.

    Even here I had to reach back to recall the plots of her novels.

    The book is a mix of humorous and poignant stories.

Seattle Book Mama Blog · 2014-10-29
positive 4.50

The essays in this book are keenly satisfying, with a mix of hilarious and poignant stories that all involve significant decisions.

The reviewer from Seattle Book Mama Blog finds Amy Tan's essays in this collection to be deeply satisfying. They appreciate the mix of humor and poignancy in her stories, each of which revolves around important decisions. The reviewer enjoys Tan's ability to weave together personal anecdotes and broader reflections on life and writing. Overall, they find the book to be a compelling and enjoyable read, highlighting Tan's skill as both a writer and a storyteller.

Quick quotes

    Thus I found Tan's essays keenly satisfying.

    She tells hilarious stories sometimes, while others are poignant, but all of them involve decisions.

    Her account of negotiating her mother's mental decline in her last years is heartbreakingly hilarious.

Bookish - LiveJournal · 2009-05-22
enlightening 3.75

The book is recommended for those learning more about the history and opinions of the author. The content is enjoyable and provides a deeper understanding of the author's life.

This memoir offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and thoughts of the author. It's particularly valuable for readers who want to understand the personal experiences that have shaped her work. The narrative is engaging and provides a deeper appreciation for the author's journey. While some sections may be more compelling than others, overall, it's a worthwhile read that offers unique insights into the creative process and the personal struggles that have influenced her writing.

Quick quotes

    I would recommend this book to anyone learning more about the history and opinions of the author Amy Tan.

    I find that I enjoyed this as much as her fiction.

    Her life is an interesting one.

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