Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See

Set in 18th century China, this novel portrays friendship between two girls from when they were young until elderly age. As friends, they experienced many things together, such as footbinding and they learned the secret language of women, nu shu. When they are in their later years, the were separated as they get married into different families. However, both keep in touch through a fan which they leave messages on. This is an interesting and intriguing novel. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in reading about history and friendship, from ages 14 and up.