Another reminder how thankful I am for winning the birth lottery. This absorbing biography provides a glimpse of life in China throughout much of the 20th century, via the experiences of the author, her mother and grandmother. Through their stories, we learn of the fear, brutality, hardship, turmoil, and betrayal that were endured. Chang also provides us with an understanding of the strength, tenacity, courage, and occasional kindness shown by many of the people in their lives.

Chang provides a necessarily brief historical overview of China during this time, including the Japanese occupation, rise of communism, and the cultural revolution. This is not an easy story, but provides the reader with an understanding of the political and cultural influences of China during this period.