The Clash of Traditional & Modern Ways in Singapore

Sarong Party Girls by Cheryl Lu-lien Tan focuses on Jazzy and her friends as they reject the old, traditional way of life in Singapore and set out to find themselves white, European husbands and have 'Chanel' babies. One of Jazzy's friends 'betrays' them and marries a local boy however the friendship is soon repaired. Jazzy, who narrates the story, speaks in Singlish which can sometimes be a little bit hard to follow and guess the meaning of some words, a glossary might have been helpful. The author relates the girls' exploits as they go out to bars and clubs seeking their ideal husband. Readers, like me, not familiar with life in the Far East are sure to be left wondering just how much truth is in this portrayal of these girls' lifestyles. The reader following the girls' quest can't help but hope they find happiness whether with a European a local or on their own. I imagine this book wouldn't suit everyone as the description of the girls' lifestyle might be too graphic for some but still an interesting and enjoyable read with lots of humour.