The Interpreter's Daughter

This memoir uncovers a family's rich history, focusing on Teresa Lim's journey to learn about her great-aunt Fanny in The Interpreter's Daughter.

In The Interpreter's Daughter, readers are invited to explore a captivating family saga that spans from 19th century southern China to contemporary Singapore. This multigenerational memoir delves into the complexities of family loyalty, historical events, and personal sacrifices that shape the lives of its characters. At the heart of the narrative is Teresa Lim, who embarks on a quest to uncover the hidden stories of her family, particularly focusing on her great-aunt Fanny, whose fierce spirit and beauty are captured in a cherished family photograph taken in Hong Kong in 1935.

As Teresa investigates her family's past, she discovers a rich tapestry of experiences involving sworn spinsters, ghost husbands, and the working-class feminists of her ancestors' time. The journey reveals not just the remarkable life of her great-aunt but also the broader historical context that influenced their lives, including the conflicts that led to war in Singapore and a long-buried family tragedy. Through the lens of personal history, The Interpreter's Daughter reflects on the stories that families choose to tell and those they leave unspoken.

This memoir is a poignant reminder of the power of storytelling and the importance of understanding one's roots. For readers who appreciate deeply emotional narratives and historical exploration, The Interpreter's Daughter promises to be a significant addition to the canon of family memoirs, resonating with themes of identity and heritage.