Anchee Min discusses her book, “Empress Orchid.” She begins by explaining that the book is historical fiction and follows the life of Tsu Hsi, also known as, Orchid. Orchid was born a poor girl in rural China, later she became a royal concubine and then the Emperor’s fourth wife, and eventually she ruled the country for forty-six years and became one of the most powerful women in Chinese history. Min goes on to explore how Orchid manipulated and maneuvered her way through the dangers and politics of the Forbidden City. Later in the interview Min shares why she decided to write the story of Empress Orchid. She explains that she felt that her daughter was not being taught Chinese history accurately. She also discusses how she feels that Americans have a lack of understanding of Chinese culture and history and how that affects their foreign policy decisions negatively.
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