(3/17/2025)
As an avid fiction reader, I always appreciate books that transport me into a new world while also delivering rich, emotionally layered storytelling. The Original Daughter by Jemimah Wei does exactly that. This beautifully written debut novel captivated me with its exploration of family, ambition, and identity, all set against the vivid backdrop of Singapore—a place I felt I came to understand more intimately through the novel's details.
The story follows Genevieve Yang, who grows up believing she is an only child, until her cousin Arin enters the picture and becomes an integral part of the family. Their evolving dynamic, shifting from childhood closeness to something more complicated in adulthood, resonated deeply with me—especially as someone with two sisters. The novel captures the nuances of sibling relationships so well: the quiet rivalries, the deep-seated love, the ways we both hurt and support each other.
Wei's writing is immersive, balancing introspection with sharp dialogue and evocative descriptions. I found myself completely engaged, not just with the characters but with the setting itself. Singapore isn't just a backdrop here—it's woven into every part of the narrative, from the intense academic pressures to the social hierarchies that shape Genevieve and Arin's lives.
What I particularly appreciated was how the novel avoids easy answers. The characters are complex and flawed, making decisions that aren't always likable but feel deeply human. I felt emotionally invested in their struggles, particularly Genevieve's journey as she grapples with belonging and self-worth.
If I had any critique, it would be that the pacing in certain parts felt slow, particularly in Genevieve's internal conflicts. But that's a minor issue in what is otherwise a deeply compelling, thought-provoking read.
Overall, The Original Daughter is a novel that lingers. It's a book about sisterhood, class, and the unspoken tensions within families. It made me think, it made me feel, and it left me eager to see what Jemimah Wei writes next. Highly recommended!