"The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane" is a novel by Lisa See that explores the life of Li-yan, a young girl from the Akha ethnic minority in China. The story follows her journey from a remote mountain village, where she learns the traditional art of tea picking, to the complexities of modern life after she encounters a foreigner. As Li-yan navigates her cultural identity and the challenges of motherhood, the novel delves into themes of family, tradition, and the impact of globalization. It also highlights the significance of tea in Akha culture and the struggles faced by women in rural communities.