Book about Chinese marriage seeks to break barriers, empower women
A book has just been released that gives insight into a topic seen as taboo in the Philippines: Chinese marriages. “Broken Mirror: Inside a Chinese Marriage” talks about the struggles of a Filipino-Chinese bride in hopes of letting the world know what happens in such tight-knit marriages.
“Broken Mirror” seeks to break barriers through the story of Aurora Tei Mei Ling, a Chinese-Filipina born in 1967, and the struggles she’s gone through in her life. It’s a tell-all book that gets you as close as you can to what it feels like to strive to be a traditional Chinese wife, as well as empowering women trapped in marriages that did not pan out as they wanted.
According to co-author Coylee Gamboa, the book “was written in complete secrecy. Only a few people knew about the book, including myself and Aurora.” She also said certain details about Aurora’s life were changed to keep everything a secret, including her real name.
A well-written book by any standard, Gamboa said it’s more than just a book that gives you an insight into a Chinese marriage. “The book proved to be a healing process for Aurora,” said Gamboa, who met her co-author in art class. “It helped her find someone to confide to,” she added, comparing Aurora’s healing process to fixing a mirror by throwing it in fire.
Gamboa said that both women and men will benefit from reading the book. “The book applies to abused women all over the world. Men should also buy the book to better understand women,” she said.
When asked for what she wanted readers to take away from her book, Gamboa said “You are precious and you are beautiful. Never give up on your dreams.”
“Broken Mirror: Inside a Chinese Marriage” will be available in all Fully Booked branches across Metro Manila by Wednesday, February 1. A release in other bookstores is in the works, as well as a digital release via Amazon.
To know more, visit brokenmirrorph.com or follow their social media accounts: Broken Mirror on Facebok and @brokenmirrorph on Instagram.
