asia

Wild Swans is an absolutely excellent choice if you're interested in learning the fascinating history of a country you know little about and want a page-turning read.

Wild Swans tells the story of nearly a century (the 20th) of Chinese life through the lives of three generations of women, told by the youngest of the three. From the grandmother with bound feet who was a concubine, to the disenfranchised Communist activist, to a brilliant young scholar, you learn an honest and unapologetic history of the country. Since it is told by an insider of the communist revolution, you learn much more than you would from a Chinese history book. You also get a powerful picture of what it was like to live through such a tumultuous time period in a country so rich with history.

It can be devastatingly sad and depressing at times because much of the 20th century in China has more than its share of starvation, torture, murder and deception. But, I was impressed with the voice the author uses. She is sometimes bit

I am not an avid reader. In fact I consider most books boring, and I shun novels altogether. I hate to read books whose stories and plots I could have myself devised. However, during a cruise last year I came across Wild Swans in the ship's library and started reading the first chapter, because I had nothing else to do. That was the beginning of an adventure! I have never been so captivated and enthralled by one person's account of her life experiences. After returning home from the cruise, I rushed off to the library to borrow a copy and continue the saga. I felt a part of the entire scenario and was soon swept away by accounts of life in Communist China and the machinations of Chairman Mao. Miss Chung did an excellent job in bringing her story to life. I didn't get a chance to finish the book but intend to do so as soon as I have some free time. I borrowed another copy for my friend who is planning a trip to China this summer, and I insisted that she read it, since her trip would not be complete without this information. I plan to buy a hard cover copy and keep it in my permanent library at home. Congratulations Ms. Jung you have converted a book loather into an avid book reader (for this work). I am looking forward to more titles in your name again in the future.

this is a beautiful book. maybe even my favorite of many classics.

it is the story of three women, strong and united with a determination that will get them through the hardships of China from the early nineteen hundrens to the present. optimism and love for each other and their family, as well as tears and sadness, get them through their lives as well as the tyrannical reign of Mao, a powerful dictator of China.

i am partly struck with wanting to share this book with you, and invite you to read it, (though it is certainly not children's fiction, but mature, adult fact) or to keep it like the treasure it is to me and i'm sure many others. if you do read it, covet it. is a bargain for what you get in return.