I was disappointed with this book overall. I expected to read a book on foot binding, and there was very little about that subject in this book. But, there were interesting chapters on other subjects. I especially enjoyed the chapter on Nu Shu or women's secret writing. There were also chapters on women poets and writers. This book relates it all to footbinding but it was over my head. I'm one of those that didn't get that the black crow symbolized death in American Literature. If you are big into symbolism and such you will probably love this book and be able to explain it to me! LOL! ( )