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Journey To The Heartland: Second Edition
Journey to the Heartland tells the real-life story of a boy growing up in a factory town in 1980s China in a broken family under a gay father who manipulated the family to accept him luring unsuspecting young men into their home. The boy survives the tormenting family life with the love of his mother and strives for academic and professional success. As the boy grows into a young man and migrates to America, the connections he made with everyday people, the struggles he witnessed in others’ lives, and the losses and loves he experienced on his journey shape his pursuit of intellect, love and humanity, challenge him to live up to his potential that his previous generation could not.
Xiaolong Huang’s book offers a rare glimpse into a life at the crossroad of homosexuality, immigration, interracial love and rising authoritarianism, and pays tribute to “everyday people who lived an honest life, struggled, cared for others, and fought for our humanity”
Xiaolong Huang’s book offers a rare glimpse into a life at the crossroad of homosexuality, immigration, interracial love and rising authoritarianism, and pays tribute to “everyday people who lived an honest life, struggled, cared for others, and fought for our humanity”
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 12, 2022
About the author
Xiaolong Huang
2 books12 followersXiaolong Huang is a Chinese-American immigrant with a PhD in Electrical Engineering from UCLA. He works as an engineer in Silicon Valley's high tech industry. He wrote his debut book, Journey to the Heartland, for cultural and intellectual influence, and celebrates social justice pioneers who fought and sacrificed for a better world.
"I wish the story in Journey To The Heartland would soften people's heart and show them, however ordinary they might be, they can be kind and brave, and together build a more just and vibrant future for humankind."
"I wish the story in Journey To The Heartland would soften people's heart and show them, however ordinary they might be, they can be kind and brave, and together build a more just and vibrant future for humankind."
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
August 16, 2023
I read this book because of the connection to China; I've never read a book by a gay man from China and was interested in the premise. I missed the fact that this is a self-published novel, but that likely would not have stopped me from reading the book, though it might have helped me understand the quality of the writing, which is quite poor. The grammar is uncertain in the finer points and usage is all over the place. Words are swapped or used in awkward contexts. The writing is that of someone who has learned English well but not with the intimacy required of a fiction writer. The story itself has some compelling moments, especially in the sections written about Hanmei's childhood, growing up as the son of a gay father who nevertheless accepts a traditional Chinese marriage. Hanmei views his father as a monster due to his treatment of Rulan, Hanmei's mother. These sections alerted me to the fact that the writer has something important to say but probably not all the tools needed to say it. So I relaxed and read the book for its information rather than its beauty. When Hanmei moves to Los Angeles and embraces his sexuality the book feels less important, though the story is still, at times, engaging. He becomes a gay clone in West Hollywood, haunting clubs, taking off his shirt with all the other hot dudes, living the life. This is my editorial comment on him, not what he says about himself. The book is genuinely interesting but full of assumptions about men and manliness. Sex is a contest of strength and aggression. Hanmei's desperation is to fit in and belong, meanwhile trying to negotiate his place in a Chinese family that still expected certain behaviors from him, like obedience to his mother and father and his eventual marriage. The relationship with Jay, a young black man, was tender but also with some queasy references, as when the writer describes him as thuggish. On the whole this felt like a book from a world that its author saw only partly and incompletely.
July 28, 2022
This is a story of a man who grew up in China with an abusive gay father and a timid mother. He immigrated to the US to face many obstacles. It was a journey of fluctuations from depression to happiness, broken heart to love, and despair to hope. He has come out on the other side as an inspiration to many and held nothing back as he laid his heart out in the book.
This book was gifted to me.
This book was gifted to me.
November 29, 2022
Surrounded by prejudice, misogyny, self-hatred, and conservatism, Hanwei grew up in China among a non-conventional family that taught him he needed to hide himself from the world, run from his reality, and become someone that society would approve of.
In this sober tale, author Xiaolong Huang reveals the anguished intimacy of a young boy troubled to figure out his sexuality under the shadow of his father who left his family after coming to terms with the fact that he was a homosexual man chased by the judgment and hatred of his community.
Hanwei’s story is packed with heartbreak, self-doubt, and fear. Xiaolong Huang takes us on a personal journey, allowing us to empathize with a young boy being abused by his father, watching his father abuse his mother, and question his own decisions after the pain he underwent.
This book offers a captivating glimpse into the growth of a boy, then, a young man, and then an adult that struggles with a sense of understanding of who he is. Seamlessly, we travel along Hanwei’s life as he learns about himself, the world, and the reality of being homosexual across different countries and cultures.
The heartening discovery that Hanwei goes through as he takes the reigns of his life pulls us into a more hopeful narrative that awakens in us the belief that it can get better to those who once felt lost and had no one to turn to.
Huang’s moving, forthright, tale addresses the vulnerability of men, the consequences of leaving your past and harmful relationships behind, and the attainment of happiness and comfort.
Journey to the Heartland is crafted as a startling realistic experience of the confusion and hesitance of coming to terms with your sexuality or gender, and putting yourself out there confidently enough that you are at peace with yourself.
I would recommend this book to those who hid themselves from the world to be looked at as “normal” and as their equal and who need a troubled story that unfolds into hope and that flicks on a light at the end of the tunnel.
In this sober tale, author Xiaolong Huang reveals the anguished intimacy of a young boy troubled to figure out his sexuality under the shadow of his father who left his family after coming to terms with the fact that he was a homosexual man chased by the judgment and hatred of his community.
Hanwei’s story is packed with heartbreak, self-doubt, and fear. Xiaolong Huang takes us on a personal journey, allowing us to empathize with a young boy being abused by his father, watching his father abuse his mother, and question his own decisions after the pain he underwent.
This book offers a captivating glimpse into the growth of a boy, then, a young man, and then an adult that struggles with a sense of understanding of who he is. Seamlessly, we travel along Hanwei’s life as he learns about himself, the world, and the reality of being homosexual across different countries and cultures.
The heartening discovery that Hanwei goes through as he takes the reigns of his life pulls us into a more hopeful narrative that awakens in us the belief that it can get better to those who once felt lost and had no one to turn to.
Huang’s moving, forthright, tale addresses the vulnerability of men, the consequences of leaving your past and harmful relationships behind, and the attainment of happiness and comfort.
Journey to the Heartland is crafted as a startling realistic experience of the confusion and hesitance of coming to terms with your sexuality or gender, and putting yourself out there confidently enough that you are at peace with yourself.
I would recommend this book to those who hid themselves from the world to be looked at as “normal” and as their equal and who need a troubled story that unfolds into hope and that flicks on a light at the end of the tunnel.
July 30, 2022
The book is about the inspiring journey of a young man slowly realizing his sexuality and coming out as a gay man. He had a dreadful childhood owing to his abusive father. However, with his sheer determination to bring a good life for his mother, he performed exceptionally well academically, winning him a ticket to UCLA to pursue his Ph.D. study in engineering. However, despite his success in his life, his journey in romance wasn't as smooth-sailing. In this book, Xiaolong Huang will guide you through the journey of his encounters with chaps from all walks of life, ranging from a handsome hunk he met at a bar in Hollywood to the love of his life eventually. This book has a fascinating storyline and a good mix of history, politics, and cultural adaptation. Highly recommended for LGBTQ readers seeking aspirations in life.
July 30, 2022
This is an outstanding novel based on a gay Asian man’s true life story.
Growing up in a family with an abusive gay father and a powerless but loving mother, a Chinese boy grew into a mature man and a successful first generation immigrant to USA. The novel is a great read for Hanwei’s life journey which has all its ups and downs, happiness and tears, broken hearts and true love. I truly admire the great courage and passion for the book author, being a gay Asian engineer, to step out into the spotlight and advocate for a better life and better society for not only gay people, but people with different color, race or sexual orientations.
Growing up in a family with an abusive gay father and a powerless but loving mother, a Chinese boy grew into a mature man and a successful first generation immigrant to USA. The novel is a great read for Hanwei’s life journey which has all its ups and downs, happiness and tears, broken hearts and true love. I truly admire the great courage and passion for the book author, being a gay Asian engineer, to step out into the spotlight and advocate for a better life and better society for not only gay people, but people with different color, race or sexual orientations.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2024
A beautiful story about love an life.
November 7, 2022
Review: Journey To The Heartland by Xiaolong Huang. 3* 10/28/2022
This is an Early Reviewer’s Book I read. This is a story about a young man who grew up in China with his parents. His father was a disturbing abusive gay man who brought home male young teens and young male adults to stay at his home for days at a time, emotionally hurting his mother and confusing messages to him. As he got older his schoolwork was impressing and he later earned a place at Beijing University in Hong Kong than decided he wanted to go to California and pursued getting into UCLA University in the United States to get a Ph.D in engineering.
At this time he thought all his worries would be gone. He was also struggling with his sexuality. In the book he will direct you through his journey in America. He will introduce you to his friends, mostly male, and relate his emotional relationships as they accrued. For a while he thought his life was going down hill because of depression and self confidence. This story was based on how he felt and how he lived. When he went to the United States he wanted social freedom and being independent. I have read memoirs before but not like this one. There were so many themes, topics, cultures, emotions in his journey that kept me reading to the end.
This is an Early Reviewer’s Book I read. This is a story about a young man who grew up in China with his parents. His father was a disturbing abusive gay man who brought home male young teens and young male adults to stay at his home for days at a time, emotionally hurting his mother and confusing messages to him. As he got older his schoolwork was impressing and he later earned a place at Beijing University in Hong Kong than decided he wanted to go to California and pursued getting into UCLA University in the United States to get a Ph.D in engineering.
At this time he thought all his worries would be gone. He was also struggling with his sexuality. In the book he will direct you through his journey in America. He will introduce you to his friends, mostly male, and relate his emotional relationships as they accrued. For a while he thought his life was going down hill because of depression and self confidence. This story was based on how he felt and how he lived. When he went to the United States he wanted social freedom and being independent. I have read memoirs before but not like this one. There were so many themes, topics, cultures, emotions in his journey that kept me reading to the end.
July 30, 2022
Palestinian from Israel? That makes no sense.
June 15, 2026
Definitely a must read.
Journey to the heartland follows a view of queerness that I have yet to encounter in other fiction. (Not to say it doesn't exist, because I'm sure this is not the only one, just that it's less popular in English language literature and as a result hasn't been something I've seen yet). Hanwei is just one generation older than I am, which is both not very far at all in how recognizable the various historical events portrayed feel, and very far in how different experiencing them is. I had just graduated high school when gay marriage was legalized throughout the United States while Hanwei was an adult in his thirties. I really enjoyed being able to see what other queer people were experiencing throughout these significant events in my life.
I also loved the way we follow Hanwei as a Chinese person. I have read many stories of queer people in China, mostly ancient China to be fair, but Hanwei's story feels unique compared to others I've read. Starting from a place where homosexual acts are illegal and punishable by law, living with a father who is clearly gay and also abusing Hanwei and his mother because of it, as well as letting other abuse him, it's typical to see these stories be about growing to accept queerness. But Hanwei's story is different. He logics his way through queerness not being inherently harmful pretty quickly and then meets others trying to convince him of it with that same logical reasoning. Even though some of the effects of abuse still linger, like how he seems to equate femininity and submission with emasculation due to his father's teachings, Hanwei finds himself content and accepting of not always happy with his queerness pretty early on, which isn't an angle seen often in these kinds of stories, particularly when reading about queer people of color.
This doesn't mean queerness isn't pivotal to the story though. We see tension in the story because of Hanwei's queerness between him and his mother (a character I will lament about soon), him and his various partners, as well as him and his countries. He is living a queer life as a queer person and his hard logic acceptance of queerness in humans doesn't stop these tensions and conflicts from happening.
I also really love Hanwei's relationship with his mother. The two of them have a sort of back and forth that I haven't seen presented often. Rulan watches her gay husband abuse her and her son before causing his own life to implode, growing up in a country that denied her education and kind of forced her into a motherhood role with few other options, and because of this she cannot immediately logic her way into accepting queerness the way Hanwei can, but unlock many mothers in stories similar to this, she isn't aggressive in her condemnation of it either. She doesn't view it as an inherent evil like most people like her would, but she meets it with a sort of casual lack of acceptance that mirrors Hanwei's casual acceptance. She worries about her child not having a happy life because he is gay and missing out on having a happy family and children to take care of him as he ages, but she doesn't fight him on it. She tells him about her worries and listens when he says he doesn't think he's going to be like his father. She comes to a gay pride parade in California and meets his gay friends despite still thinking it's the wrong path for him. She agrees to have dinner with his boyfriend who she doesn't even share a language with because she wants him to be on the right path even though she fears he isn't. And at the end she is at his wedding happy he has chosen to be who he is because she can see that he has chosen a good path while being gay. Rulan's homophobia and then later acceptance are causal in a way that doesn't get depicted often, and I'm glad to see it here.
Going from the 80's in China to 2022 in America was also very interesting. It's not a timeline is see much of, with malt books staying very modern or focussing in the past. This books was refreshing, it was well written, and I think it's a story that needs to be shared.
(I received a free copy for review)
Journey to the heartland follows a view of queerness that I have yet to encounter in other fiction. (Not to say it doesn't exist, because I'm sure this is not the only one, just that it's less popular in English language literature and as a result hasn't been something I've seen yet). Hanwei is just one generation older than I am, which is both not very far at all in how recognizable the various historical events portrayed feel, and very far in how different experiencing them is. I had just graduated high school when gay marriage was legalized throughout the United States while Hanwei was an adult in his thirties. I really enjoyed being able to see what other queer people were experiencing throughout these significant events in my life.
I also loved the way we follow Hanwei as a Chinese person. I have read many stories of queer people in China, mostly ancient China to be fair, but Hanwei's story feels unique compared to others I've read. Starting from a place where homosexual acts are illegal and punishable by law, living with a father who is clearly gay and also abusing Hanwei and his mother because of it, as well as letting other abuse him, it's typical to see these stories be about growing to accept queerness. But Hanwei's story is different. He logics his way through queerness not being inherently harmful pretty quickly and then meets others trying to convince him of it with that same logical reasoning. Even though some of the effects of abuse still linger, like how he seems to equate femininity and submission with emasculation due to his father's teachings, Hanwei finds himself content and accepting of not always happy with his queerness pretty early on, which isn't an angle seen often in these kinds of stories, particularly when reading about queer people of color.
This doesn't mean queerness isn't pivotal to the story though. We see tension in the story because of Hanwei's queerness between him and his mother (a character I will lament about soon), him and his various partners, as well as him and his countries. He is living a queer life as a queer person and his hard logic acceptance of queerness in humans doesn't stop these tensions and conflicts from happening.
I also really love Hanwei's relationship with his mother. The two of them have a sort of back and forth that I haven't seen presented often. Rulan watches her gay husband abuse her and her son before causing his own life to implode, growing up in a country that denied her education and kind of forced her into a motherhood role with few other options, and because of this she cannot immediately logic her way into accepting queerness the way Hanwei can, but unlock many mothers in stories similar to this, she isn't aggressive in her condemnation of it either. She doesn't view it as an inherent evil like most people like her would, but she meets it with a sort of casual lack of acceptance that mirrors Hanwei's casual acceptance. She worries about her child not having a happy life because he is gay and missing out on having a happy family and children to take care of him as he ages, but she doesn't fight him on it. She tells him about her worries and listens when he says he doesn't think he's going to be like his father. She comes to a gay pride parade in California and meets his gay friends despite still thinking it's the wrong path for him. She agrees to have dinner with his boyfriend who she doesn't even share a language with because she wants him to be on the right path even though she fears he isn't. And at the end she is at his wedding happy he has chosen to be who he is because she can see that he has chosen a good path while being gay. Rulan's homophobia and then later acceptance are causal in a way that doesn't get depicted often, and I'm glad to see it here.
Going from the 80's in China to 2022 in America was also very interesting. It's not a timeline is see much of, with malt books staying very modern or focussing in the past. This books was refreshing, it was well written, and I think it's a story that needs to be shared.
(I received a free copy for review)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2023
This book is an exceptional memoir that takes readers on an emotional & thought-provoking expedition. Through his masterful storytelling, Huang unveils the extraordinary true story of a young boy's resilience in the face of a challenging upbringing in a factory town in 1980s China.
The author's writing prowess shines through as he skillfully paints a vivid picture of life during that era, offering a unique glimpse into a world few have experienced. The painful childhood with an abusive father is depicted with raw honesty, evoking a rollercoaster of emotions in the reader. However, amidst the darkness, Through the love and support of Hanwei's courageous mother, the story emphasizes the strength and resilience that can be found in family bonds. The connections Hanwei forms with everyday people he encounters in his journey further highlight the transformative power of human relationships.
What sets Journey to the Heartland apart is its ability to delve into complex themes such as identity, love, and the pursuit of one's true potential. The exploration of the protagonist's journey towards self acceptance & the challenges faced by ordinary people resonates deeply. Huang's writing prompts introspection, compelling readers to reflect on their own lives & consider the importance of compassion, bravery, and authenticity.
The memoir's educational value can't be overstated. It not only offers a captivating narrative but also provides invaluable insights into life in 1980s China & the struggles faced by immigrants in their pursuit of a better life. The book fosters understanding and empathy, enlightening readers about the experiences of individuals living at the crossroads of homosexuality, immigration, interracial love, and rising authoritarianism.
Huang's intention to soften hearts & enlighten the younger generation is palpable throughout the book. His poignant storytelling & the profound impact of the protagonist's journey compel readers to challenge societal norms, embrace diversity, and actively contribute to creating a more just and vibrant future.
His work is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling as a means of fostering empathy, compassion, and understanding. It serves as a powerful call to be kinder, braver, and more compassionate in a world that can often be turbulent & unforgiving.
In conclusion, Journey to the Heartland is a captivating memoir that seamlessly weaves together personal struggles, cultural insights, and universal themes. Xiaolong Huang's remarkable storytelling skills, combined with his heartfelt message, make this book a true gem. It is a compelling read that will leave an indelible mark on your heart, reminding you of the power of resilience, compassion, and the pursuit of a life lived authentically.
The author's writing prowess shines through as he skillfully paints a vivid picture of life during that era, offering a unique glimpse into a world few have experienced. The painful childhood with an abusive father is depicted with raw honesty, evoking a rollercoaster of emotions in the reader. However, amidst the darkness, Through the love and support of Hanwei's courageous mother, the story emphasizes the strength and resilience that can be found in family bonds. The connections Hanwei forms with everyday people he encounters in his journey further highlight the transformative power of human relationships.
What sets Journey to the Heartland apart is its ability to delve into complex themes such as identity, love, and the pursuit of one's true potential. The exploration of the protagonist's journey towards self acceptance & the challenges faced by ordinary people resonates deeply. Huang's writing prompts introspection, compelling readers to reflect on their own lives & consider the importance of compassion, bravery, and authenticity.
The memoir's educational value can't be overstated. It not only offers a captivating narrative but also provides invaluable insights into life in 1980s China & the struggles faced by immigrants in their pursuit of a better life. The book fosters understanding and empathy, enlightening readers about the experiences of individuals living at the crossroads of homosexuality, immigration, interracial love, and rising authoritarianism.
Huang's intention to soften hearts & enlighten the younger generation is palpable throughout the book. His poignant storytelling & the profound impact of the protagonist's journey compel readers to challenge societal norms, embrace diversity, and actively contribute to creating a more just and vibrant future.
His work is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling as a means of fostering empathy, compassion, and understanding. It serves as a powerful call to be kinder, braver, and more compassionate in a world that can often be turbulent & unforgiving.
In conclusion, Journey to the Heartland is a captivating memoir that seamlessly weaves together personal struggles, cultural insights, and universal themes. Xiaolong Huang's remarkable storytelling skills, combined with his heartfelt message, make this book a true gem. It is a compelling read that will leave an indelible mark on your heart, reminding you of the power of resilience, compassion, and the pursuit of a life lived authentically.
June 17, 2026
This story highlighted the unique conflict of being queer, an immigrant and the impact of traditional Chinese values. Written with short experts of his life, in chronological order, readers learn how complex and dynamic humans are. Learning that the labels we identify with can lead to conflicts values and morals. The relationships explored with family, friends and lovers were both tragic and heartwarming. A memoir worth reading.
This book is truly 3.5 stars as it motivates readers to remain optimistic and curious about those around us. Reminding us that we are all humans deserving of love. This would have been 4 stars if it wasn't for the slow start. In addition I had complex feelings regarding the sexual abuse that was glossed over as a part of growing up. I would have been interested to see how these experiences were reflected on later on in his life. However I understand that this is also personal and we as readers are not entitled to that healing process.
This book is truly 3.5 stars as it motivates readers to remain optimistic and curious about those around us. Reminding us that we are all humans deserving of love. This would have been 4 stars if it wasn't for the slow start. In addition I had complex feelings regarding the sexual abuse that was glossed over as a part of growing up. I would have been interested to see how these experiences were reflected on later on in his life. However I understand that this is also personal and we as readers are not entitled to that healing process.
August 9, 2024
This is a coming of age story of a boy who grew up in a rural Chinese community, and through his academic agility found a way to get to the United States and get his PhD. It is both a Chinese and American story. It gives an example of how immigration and diversity make the US a better place. The line of progress for the protagonist is not always upward and he must always adapt. However, according to his story, the US tolerance for queers was much further along than the Chinese tolerance. It is heartening in this time when immigration is so controversal and polarizing that this is a modern day immigration success story.
June 6, 2026
"A story, much like a memory, is rarely finished the first time it is told."
This was a difficult read. The author had what most would call a hard and ugly childhood. Abuse is abuse, no matter how you try to spin it. And escaping to America doesn't magically fix your problems. Or your mistakes. Or your family. Or your past.
Also, there's a whole chapter dedicated to what meth can do to you. Not sure that was necessary to advancing the plot.
This is the second edition? Maybe it needs a third.
This was a difficult read. The author had what most would call a hard and ugly childhood. Abuse is abuse, no matter how you try to spin it. And escaping to America doesn't magically fix your problems. Or your mistakes. Or your family. Or your past.
Also, there's a whole chapter dedicated to what meth can do to you. Not sure that was necessary to advancing the plot.
This is the second edition? Maybe it needs a third.
July 17, 2023
If you like social comment then read it. If you don't, avoid. Not a good read.
January 10, 2024
A beautiful journey in life
Soul searching novel raises questions, offers understanding and love in return. Creates hope in this crazy world that true goodness does exist.
Soul searching novel raises questions, offers understanding and love in return. Creates hope in this crazy world that true goodness does exist.
June 15, 2024
Either a really bad translation or a poorly written book.
October 9, 2024
Sometimes things happened to slow, sometimes they happened too fast, and I didn't quite get the point of the story. By the end I felt the author just wanted to convince you on his political ideology
May 18, 2025
Incredible journey for Xiaolong.
June 22, 2023
Hanwei, an intelligent, kind and insightful boy, trying to be a good human being with a heart that wants to contribute to the society for its greater good, learns of the new and exciting world that lays beyond his hometown. With life at home being hard to bear, he decides to leave for Hong Kong. This journey is the beginning of many novel things in which he finds his own standing and the larger understanding of life.
Growing up in a factory town with his family, he was quick to realise that he was different from others as his likes differed when it came to attraction. But as an insightful and observing young man he tries to face his problems in a realistic and practical way, keeping in mind the shortcomings of others who lack the knowledge to know better.
This book based of real incidents, follows an competent young boy into his adulthood and into his later life, overcoming emotional adversities and the hardships of being a gay man, in spite of which he successed in being a compassionate human being, inspiring all to have the courage to be themselves and to do good to help the world be a better place.
Growing up in a factory town with his family, he was quick to realise that he was different from others as his likes differed when it came to attraction. But as an insightful and observing young man he tries to face his problems in a realistic and practical way, keeping in mind the shortcomings of others who lack the knowledge to know better.
This book based of real incidents, follows an competent young boy into his adulthood and into his later life, overcoming emotional adversities and the hardships of being a gay man, in spite of which he successed in being a compassionate human being, inspiring all to have the courage to be themselves and to do good to help the world be a better place.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews