Nine main characters are each given a chapter in the book. Whose story did you find the most compelling?
I most appreciated the stories of the only two women – Birgitte, who was inspired by her sister fighting environmental destruction to step out of her empty life and join the battle (though perhaps in a colonial way), and Tomoko, who although she ended up participating in and cheering on the investment system, used it to liberate herself from a patriarchal oppressive marriage and help other women do the same (it’s sad that’s the only way she could do it). I actually wish there’d been a more openly avaricious fiercely competitive woman trader or corporate executive – there are plenty of such women in this world
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I loved the story about the Japanese woman - Tomiko Watanabe. I think that such a brilliant way to explore misogyny, resilience and a woman’s dignity. I also thought it showed how someone who was not necessarily wealthy could learn to make wise investments for their family and the future.
I was also especially drawn to Tomiko, although I found all of the characters very interesting in their own ways. I agree with Janine above - Tomiko rose above the obstacles of her domineering father and mother-in-law and succeeded in her own right.
Tomiko’s story was my favorite. I especially liked the way she used her purse to stop the takeover of the bus in Mexico, My kind of hero.
I had to answer another of your questions before I knew the answer to this one. Tomoko Watanabe. I found myself worrying about her and the possibility she lost everything.
My vote is Tomiko as well. Her motives were personal, and she didn’t wrestle with morality.
Tomorrow was most compelling to me too. I was so worried about her when she went to the department store and found the meeting. I also want to say the chapter (or character who drove it) was Ryan Forrester. That chapter showed the beginning of what was to come and how it seemed there was no “right” choice when it came to the decision they had to make.
Tomiko wins it for me as well, perhaps because as a woman, I can identify with her more. Most of the men in the story are a little cutthroat when it comes to making money.
I thought all of the characters were interesting in their own ways. I liked the story about Tomiko, like the majority of the readers here, but also felt for the Mexican immigrant who was taken advantage of. I also liked the Norwegian man, Johannsen, and his wife. I just thought the character development was great in this book!