Relationship between Tony and Tammy

Tammy definitely loved her fathe4and sought to please him with her accomplishments. At the same time she was confused by his volatile reaction towards her if she questioned or contradicted him. She felt the weight of her parents’ decision to leave China and was conflicted in how she felt about their decision. In spite of these complexities there was love among the family members.

I just finished this book on my walk with my dog this morning. It was a good read. The relationship between Tony and Tammy was so heartbreaking – especially in the final chapters when we learn more about Tony’s relationship with his own father and how much he wanted his daughter to have more opportunities and a better life. He told her that was his reason for coming to the US once or twice, but I don’t think she really understood his past because he never fully explained it to her (like many parents). The cycle of abuse is so hard to break, which was evident in their relationship. He loved his daughter fiercely, but had difficulty opening up to her and letting her in to his real emotions. His wife (Kim) tried to moderate his temper, but struggled as well. The dream of a life in America often didn’t match their reality as immigrants (especially for Tony).