The Good Earth Book Summary

In 'The Good Earth,' Pearl S. Buck explores the life of Wang Lung, a Chinese peasant whose fortunes rise and fall with his connection to the land. As he navigates love, struggle, and the inexorable cycle of life and death, Wang Lung's relationship with his wife O-Lan deepens, revealing the complexities of loyalty and ambition. The novel paints a vivid portrait of rural China, immersing readers in the rhythm of agrarian life and the conflicts that arise from wealth and power. Through rich storytelling, Buck raises profound questions about humanity's bond with nature and the true cost of prosperity. Will Wang Lung's ultimate pursuit of wealth lead him to fulfilment, or will the earth’s gifts come at a price?

By Pearl S. Buck

Published: 2004

""The soil is the source of life; it allows us to grow, to thrive, and to understand our place in the world.""

Book Review of The Good Earth

"The classic novel of pre-revolutionary China." (from the front cover).

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"The soil is the source of life; it allows us to grow, to thrive, and to understand our place in the world."

The Good Earth

By Pearl S. Buck