Book of the Month: Daughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tan
As we celebrate Asian & Pacific American Heritage Month, PRSA Orlando’s Book of the Month pick is “Daughter of the Moon Goddess,” by Sue Lynn Tan. Tan shares a fantasy, inspired by Chinese mythology, centered on Xingyin, the daughter of Chang’e, the Moon Goddess. The novel is a story about identity, perseverance, and challenging existing societal norms, which makes it an important and meaningful read for professionals who value diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Key DEI Themes & Takeaways for PR & Marketing Professionals
Cultural Representation & Storytelling
- Chinese folklore is brought to life through Tan’s storytelling, demonstrating the power of authenticity in shaping perspectives. We can learn how cultural narratives build deeper connections with audiences and foster inclusivity in branding and messaging.
Breaking Barriers & Challenging Stereotypes
- Xingyin defies the expectations placed upon her due to her background, proving herself in a male-dominated environment. This mirrors the importance of advocating for diverse voices in leadership and breaking industry stereotypes in our workplaces.
The Power of Perspective & Empathy
- Throughout the novel, characters must navigate complicated relationships and shifting alliances, reinforcing the importance of understanding different perspectives which echoes the work done to develop campaigns and communications strategies.
Resilience & Adaptability
- Xingyin’s journey is one of resilience and overcoming obstacles and adapting to change. Those invaluable skills are important for professionals managing crises, shifting narratives, and fostering inclusive workplace cultures.
Why PRSA Orlando Members Should Read It
Beyond its prose and engaging plot, “Daughter of the Moon Goddess” offers a fresh perspective on representation, identity, and perseverance – qualities essential for today’s communicators. Whether crafting more inclusive narratives or leading with cultural intelligence, this book serves as a compelling reminder of how stories shape our world.
