In the Shadow of the Cypress: Library Edition

Steinbeck, Thomas

ISBN 10: 1441838236 ISBN 13: 9781441838230

Publisher: Brilliance Audio Lib Edn, 2010

Synopsis

Thomas Steinbeck's short story collection Down to a Soundless Sea won high praise from critics and readers everywhere. Now, he continues the family tradition of fascinating storytelling in his first full-length novel In the Shadow of the Cypress, which showcases his splendidly assured voice and exquisite eye for cultural detail. In 1906, Doctor Charles H Gilbert, a Stanford professor of marine biology discovers some ancient jade artefacts on California's Monterey Peninsula. The existence of these sacred stones, if authenticated, would indicate a very early Asian presence in the New World, an idea that conflicts with modern beliefs. When the Chinese fishing village where the artefacts were discovered is completely burned to the ground, there are many conflicting opinions about the proper fate of these artefacts. Eventually, a wealthy businessman agrees to pay for the stones to be transported back to China - but a tragic explosion on the boat occurs and the relics are lost at sea...until nearly a hundred years later when two young scholars join forces and attempt to locate the sunken treasure. With superb attention to cultural detail, Steinbeck brings to vivid light the Chinese immigrant experience at turn of the century California, juxtaposing complex ancient rituals against contemporary customs with the grace, passion and authority of a master.

About this title

Review:

"Upbeat, captivating, provocative, and classy, Steinbeck's adventure is as tonic as a breath of fresh sea air." --Booklist

About the Author:

Thomas Steinbeck began his career in the 1960s as a combat photographer in Vietnam. Known best for his short stories, his collection Down to the Soundless Sea won critical praise. Along with his writing and producing obligations, Steinbeck is in demand as a public speaker where he lectures on American literature, creative writing, and the communication arts. He lives in California with his wife Gail.

About this edition

• Publisher: Brilliance Audio Lib Edn
• Publication date: 2010
• ISBN 10: 1441838236
• ISBN 13: 9781441838230
• Binding: MP3 CD