Thousand Pieces of Gold

Thousand Pieces of Gold tells the true story of Lalu Nathoy, a young Chinese woman sold into slavery in the late 1800s. The narrative follows her journey from rural China to the American frontier, where she becomes known as Polly Bemis. Based on extensive research and historical documents, this biographical novel chronicles Lalu's experiences as she navigates life in the American Old West. The story takes place primarily in Idaho's rugged mining country, depicting the realities of Chinese immigrant life during this pivotal period of American history. Author Ruthanne Lum McCunn discovered Lalu's story while researching Chinese Americans in Idaho, and later learned her own father had met Polly Bemis. The 1981 book was later adapted into a film of the same name in 1991. The novel examines themes of survival, resilience, and cultural identity while documenting a lesser-known chapter of American frontier history through one woman's remarkable life story.

Readers appreciate this biographical novel for its detailed portrayal of Chinese-American immigrant life in the 1800s and its focus on a strong female protagonist. Many note the book provides insights into both Chinese cultural traditions and American frontier life. Likes: - Historical accuracy and research - Character development of Lalu/Polly - Cultural insights into 19th century China and American West - Fast-paced narrative style Dislikes: - Some find the writing style basic or unpolished - Several readers wanted more detail about the later years of Polly's life - A few note the romance elements feel rushed Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (190+ reviews) Reader quote: "The author does an excellent job of showing both the harsh realities and the moments of triumph in Polly's life without sensationalizing either." - Goodreads reviewer The book appears on several high school and college reading lists for Asian American studies courses.

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🔹 The real-life inspiration, Polly Bemis, lived to be 86 years old and became the first Chinese woman to legally own property in the state of Idaho. 🔹 Author Ruthanne Lum McCunn spent over seven years researching and writing the book, including traveling to China to visit Polly's home village. 🔹 The book was adapted into a film in 1991 starring Rosalind Chao and Chris Cooper, though it deviated significantly from the historical facts preserved in the novel. 🔹 Polly's original Chinese name was Lalu Nathoy, and she earned her nickname "Polly" after being purchased by a Chinese saloon owner in Idaho named Charlie Bemis, whom she later married. 🔹 The Polly Bemis House on the Salmon River in Idaho was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987 and remains a popular tourist destination today.