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The Paper Daughters of Chinatown: Adapted for Young Readers
Based on the true story of two friends who unite to help rescue immigrant women and girls in San Francisco’s Chinatown in the late 1890s.
When Tai Choi leaves her home in the Zhejiang province of China, she believes it’s to visit her grandmother. But despite her mother’s opposition, her father has sold her to pay his gambling debts. Alone and afraid, Tai Choi is put on a ship headed for “Gold Mountain” (San Francisco). When she arrives, she’s forced to go by the name on her forged papers: Tien Fu Wu.
Her new life as a servant is hard. She is told to stay hidden, stay silent, and perform an endless list of chores, or she will be punished or sold again. If she is to survive, Tien Fu must persevere, and learn who to trust. Her life changes when she’s rescued by the women at the Occidental Mission Home for Girls.
When Dolly Cameron arrives in San Francisco to teach sewing at the mission home, she meets Tien Fu, who is willful, defiant, and unwilling to trust anyone. Dolly quickly learns that all the girls at the home were freed from servitude and maltreatment, and enthusiastically accepts a role in rescuing more.
Despite challenges, Dolly and Tien Fu forge a powerful friendship as they mentor and help those in the mission home and work to win the freedom of enslaved immigrant women and girls.
When Tai Choi leaves her home in the Zhejiang province of China, she believes it’s to visit her grandmother. But despite her mother’s opposition, her father has sold her to pay his gambling debts. Alone and afraid, Tai Choi is put on a ship headed for “Gold Mountain” (San Francisco). When she arrives, she’s forced to go by the name on her forged papers: Tien Fu Wu.
Her new life as a servant is hard. She is told to stay hidden, stay silent, and perform an endless list of chores, or she will be punished or sold again. If she is to survive, Tien Fu must persevere, and learn who to trust. Her life changes when she’s rescued by the women at the Occidental Mission Home for Girls.
When Dolly Cameron arrives in San Francisco to teach sewing at the mission home, she meets Tien Fu, who is willful, defiant, and unwilling to trust anyone. Dolly quickly learns that all the girls at the home were freed from servitude and maltreatment, and enthusiastically accepts a role in rescuing more.
Despite challenges, Dolly and Tien Fu forge a powerful friendship as they mentor and help those in the mission home and work to win the freedom of enslaved immigrant women and girls.
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 11, 2023
22 people are currently reading
2897 people want to read
About the author
Heather B. Moore
163 books1,595 followersHeather B. Moore is a USA Today bestselling author of more than ninety publications. Heather writes primarily historical and #herstory fiction about the humanity and heroism of the everyday person. Publishing in a breadth of genres, Heather dives into the hearts and souls of her characters, meshing her love of research with her love of storytelling.
Her ancient era historicals and thrillers are written under pen name H.B. Moore. She writes historical women's fiction, romance and inspirational non-fiction under Heather B. Moore, and . . . speculative fiction under Jane Redd. This can all be confusing, so her kids just call her Mom. Heather attended Cairo American College in Egypt and the Anglican School of Jerusalem in Israel. Despite failing her high school AP English exam, Heather persevered and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University in something other than English.
Please join Heather's email list at: HBMoore.com/contact/
Website: HBMoore.com
Twitter: @heatherbmoore
Instagram: @authorhbmoore
Facebook: Fans of Heather B. Moore
And yes, the Blog still lives: MyWritersLair.blogspot.com
Literary honors: 2020 Goodreads Choice Award Semi-Finalist, Foreword 2020 INDIES Finalist, ALA Best New Books - September 2020, 6-time Best of State Recipient for Best in Literary Arts, 2019 Maggie Award Winner, 4-time Whitney Award Winner, and 2-time Golden Quill Award Winner.
Heather is represented by Dystel, Goderich, and Bourret.
Her ancient era historicals and thrillers are written under pen name H.B. Moore. She writes historical women's fiction, romance and inspirational non-fiction under Heather B. Moore, and . . . speculative fiction under Jane Redd. This can all be confusing, so her kids just call her Mom. Heather attended Cairo American College in Egypt and the Anglican School of Jerusalem in Israel. Despite failing her high school AP English exam, Heather persevered and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University in something other than English.
Please join Heather's email list at: HBMoore.com/contact/
Website: HBMoore.com
Twitter: @heatherbmoore
Instagram: @authorhbmoore
Facebook: Fans of Heather B. Moore
And yes, the Blog still lives: MyWritersLair.blogspot.com
Literary honors: 2020 Goodreads Choice Award Semi-Finalist, Foreword 2020 INDIES Finalist, ALA Best New Books - September 2020, 6-time Best of State Recipient for Best in Literary Arts, 2019 Maggie Award Winner, 4-time Whitney Award Winner, and 2-time Golden Quill Award Winner.
Heather is represented by Dystel, Goderich, and Bourret.
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October 13, 2022
I've read the adult version of this book, and wondered how they were going to adapt it, since so much of the content is disturbing: trafficking, forced prostitution, and all kinds of unimaginable mistreatment. I think the authors did a good job. They concentrated on one 6 year old girl being sold by her father to pay gambling debts, and follow her to America where she is sold several times more to work as a cleaner, cook, and babysitter. (The original book was quite a bit more graphic describing some of the girls' situations.) They do mention prostitution and bordellos in passing, but most of the references to opium are left out. This is an aspect of history that is unfamiliar to many, and it will be a good addition to historical fiction collections for teen readers. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
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July 29, 2022In 2019, I visited the Cameron House in San Francisco for the first time. Founded in 1874, originally established as the Occidental Mission Home for Girls, the Cameron House has a long history of bringing aid and relief to the community of Chinatown, (CameronHouse.org). My purpose in visiting was to learn more about the remarkable women who worked as volunteers in the early years, including former mission home director Donaldina Cameron, in preparation for writing the historical novel, The Paper Daughters of Chinatown (September 2020, Shadow Mountain). But one visit to the Cameron House, and I was deeply touched by the life and service of Tien Fu Wu.
In 2021, my publisher asked me to write a Young Readers version of The Paper Daughters of Chinatown. I hesitated because I was reluctant to go back into the depths of research that had brought me so much heartache. So I decided to read a few other YR versions of favorite books of mine. I discovered that most of them were either co-written or ghost-written. That gave me an idea. If I could share the emotional journey with a co-author while writing another version of this heart-wrenching story of what took place in San Francisco's Chinatown, then I would seriously consider it. The first writer who came to mind was Allison Hong Merrill. The minute I thought of her, I knew without a doubt, that she would be a stellar co-author. Allison had been my first reader of the original manuscript and had given me excellent insights. She'd also recently published a deeply personal memoir that left me grateful to have such a fierce and loyal friend.
Still, I was nervous to ask her because the deadline was pretty tight, and I needed her to be completely on board with not only the entire writing and editing process, but future marketing. I emailed Allison, and she replied almost immediately, even though she was flying in a small plane with almost nonexistent reception. Her resounding YES only confirmed I'd made the right choice. This was echoed over and over as we hammered out the plot and put together an intense writing and accountability schedule. We both agreed that the main character of this new version would be 6-year-old Tien Fu Wu. We kept part of the Donaldina Cameron story arc from the original book, but completely rewrote her chapters with a different focus. (So, yes, you can read both versions and come away with two stories.)
“Auntie Wu” or “Tien” as the residents of the mission home called her, was brought to Chinatown as a paper daughter in the late 1800s. A loophole in the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 created a dubious opportunity for slave owners or members of the criminal tong to bring Chinese women into the country under false identities supported by forged paperwork. In this forged paperwork system, the young Chinese woman would memorize her new family’s heritage and claim to be married or otherwise related to a Chinese man already living and working in California, and the paper daughter was allowed into the country. “Upon arrival in San Francisco many such Chinese women, usually between the ages of sixteen and twenty-five, were taken to a barracoon, where they were either turned over to their owners or stripped for inspection and sold to the highest bidder” (see Unbound Feet by Judy Young, 27).
Such was Tien Fu’s experience. In the records from the Cameron House, we learn that Tien Fu was called Teen Fook or Tai Choi before her rescue. In an entry dated January 17, 1894, her rescue is detailed: “Tai Choie alias Teen Fook was rescued by Miss Houseworth, Miss Florence Worley and some police officers from her inhuman mistress who lived on Jackson St. near Stockton St. The child had been very cruelly treated—her flesh pinched and twisted till her face was scarred. Another method of torture was to dip lighted candlewicking in oil and burn her arms with it. Teen Fook is a pretty child of about ten years old, rosy cheeked and fair complexion” (see Chinatown’s Angry Angel by Mildred Martin, 46).
Adjustment to new life and expectations in the mission home wasn’t a simple road for any of the girls and young women, especially for Tien Fu. She harbored deep resentments for anyone who was in a position of power over her, but through the months and years of love and consistency, Tien Fu flourished and became an integral part of the mission’s work. She served as a translator for the mission home director, Donaldina Cameron, when they went on rescue work. Tien Fu wanted to continue contributing, to give back, and to serve those in need. She was determined to get a college education so that she could open more doors and serve in greater capacities in the mission home and throughout the community.
The mission home found a sponsor for Tien Fu’s education, and she spent four years in Germantown, Pennsylvania, and two years in Bible Training School in Toronto, Canada (Martin, 153). Before leaving San Francisco, she promised Donaldina Cameron that she would return to the mission home and continue to work for the cause. True to her word, Tien Fu returned to San Francisco and spent the remainder of her career as a champion for the women and girls of the Chinatown community. She truly lived a dedicated life in service, faith, and love as she persevered through extreme challenges, while lifting others with her along the way.
In 2021, my publisher asked me to write a Young Readers version of The Paper Daughters of Chinatown. I hesitated because I was reluctant to go back into the depths of research that had brought me so much heartache. So I decided to read a few other YR versions of favorite books of mine. I discovered that most of them were either co-written or ghost-written. That gave me an idea. If I could share the emotional journey with a co-author while writing another version of this heart-wrenching story of what took place in San Francisco's Chinatown, then I would seriously consider it. The first writer who came to mind was Allison Hong Merrill. The minute I thought of her, I knew without a doubt, that she would be a stellar co-author. Allison had been my first reader of the original manuscript and had given me excellent insights. She'd also recently published a deeply personal memoir that left me grateful to have such a fierce and loyal friend.
Still, I was nervous to ask her because the deadline was pretty tight, and I needed her to be completely on board with not only the entire writing and editing process, but future marketing. I emailed Allison, and she replied almost immediately, even though she was flying in a small plane with almost nonexistent reception. Her resounding YES only confirmed I'd made the right choice. This was echoed over and over as we hammered out the plot and put together an intense writing and accountability schedule. We both agreed that the main character of this new version would be 6-year-old Tien Fu Wu. We kept part of the Donaldina Cameron story arc from the original book, but completely rewrote her chapters with a different focus. (So, yes, you can read both versions and come away with two stories.)
“Auntie Wu” or “Tien” as the residents of the mission home called her, was brought to Chinatown as a paper daughter in the late 1800s. A loophole in the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 created a dubious opportunity for slave owners or members of the criminal tong to bring Chinese women into the country under false identities supported by forged paperwork. In this forged paperwork system, the young Chinese woman would memorize her new family’s heritage and claim to be married or otherwise related to a Chinese man already living and working in California, and the paper daughter was allowed into the country. “Upon arrival in San Francisco many such Chinese women, usually between the ages of sixteen and twenty-five, were taken to a barracoon, where they were either turned over to their owners or stripped for inspection and sold to the highest bidder” (see Unbound Feet by Judy Young, 27).
Such was Tien Fu’s experience. In the records from the Cameron House, we learn that Tien Fu was called Teen Fook or Tai Choi before her rescue. In an entry dated January 17, 1894, her rescue is detailed: “Tai Choie alias Teen Fook was rescued by Miss Houseworth, Miss Florence Worley and some police officers from her inhuman mistress who lived on Jackson St. near Stockton St. The child had been very cruelly treated—her flesh pinched and twisted till her face was scarred. Another method of torture was to dip lighted candlewicking in oil and burn her arms with it. Teen Fook is a pretty child of about ten years old, rosy cheeked and fair complexion” (see Chinatown’s Angry Angel by Mildred Martin, 46).
Adjustment to new life and expectations in the mission home wasn’t a simple road for any of the girls and young women, especially for Tien Fu. She harbored deep resentments for anyone who was in a position of power over her, but through the months and years of love and consistency, Tien Fu flourished and became an integral part of the mission’s work. She served as a translator for the mission home director, Donaldina Cameron, when they went on rescue work. Tien Fu wanted to continue contributing, to give back, and to serve those in need. She was determined to get a college education so that she could open more doors and serve in greater capacities in the mission home and throughout the community.
The mission home found a sponsor for Tien Fu’s education, and she spent four years in Germantown, Pennsylvania, and two years in Bible Training School in Toronto, Canada (Martin, 153). Before leaving San Francisco, she promised Donaldina Cameron that she would return to the mission home and continue to work for the cause. True to her word, Tien Fu returned to San Francisco and spent the remainder of her career as a champion for the women and girls of the Chinatown community. She truly lived a dedicated life in service, faith, and love as she persevered through extreme challenges, while lifting others with her along the way.
May 2, 2024
Wow. I honestly don’t have many other words to say.
This book was so emotional! It made my heart hurt, and yet rejoice when a girl was saved and people were there to fight for their rights.
This book made me stop & think — about girls in the past who had no voice, and girls now who are in the same predicament!
I am adding the unadapted version to my TBR now, but I know I’ll be torn to shreds when I read that one.
I think this adapted version was so well done and if anyone is looking for a book about this time in history (or even just trafficking) this was a great one to read! (Especially for slightly older kids)
I can’t even begin to fathom what those girls went through, but I’m thankful God created people like Donaldina Cameron, Margaret Culbertson, Yuen Qui, Ah Cheng, and so many unnamed people to fight the good fight then, and inspire people to fight the good fight now.
5/5 stars!
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
TRIGGER WARNINGS!
Human trafficking, slavery, beatings, torture, death, murder, prostitution.
It’s a gritty book with such a great message!
This book was so emotional! It made my heart hurt, and yet rejoice when a girl was saved and people were there to fight for their rights.
This book made me stop & think — about girls in the past who had no voice, and girls now who are in the same predicament!
I am adding the unadapted version to my TBR now, but I know I’ll be torn to shreds when I read that one.
I think this adapted version was so well done and if anyone is looking for a book about this time in history (or even just trafficking) this was a great one to read! (Especially for slightly older kids)
I can’t even begin to fathom what those girls went through, but I’m thankful God created people like Donaldina Cameron, Margaret Culbertson, Yuen Qui, Ah Cheng, and so many unnamed people to fight the good fight then, and inspire people to fight the good fight now.
5/5 stars!
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
TRIGGER WARNINGS!
Human trafficking, slavery, beatings, torture, death, murder, prostitution.
It’s a gritty book with such a great message!
2023
October 15, 2025ANHPI TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain
April 10, 2023
TITLE: The Paper Daughters of Chinatown
AUTHOR: Heather B. Moore and Allison Hong Merrill
PUB DATE: 4.11.2023 Preorder Now
GENRE: Young Adult, Historical Fiction
I LOVED THIS BOOK!
Heather B Moore and Allison Hong Merrill did an outstanding job in this heartbreaking and well researched novel about the history of the Chinese in San Francisco era 1890’s to early 1900’s. As a daughter of Chinese immigrants, this book resonated with me on how far we have come and how much more we have to go in issues of race and discrimination Chinese Americans face even today.
This is an amazing and inspiring story about a real life hero, Donaldina Cameron whose work on saving and rescuing these young women brought from China with a promise for a better life were forced into prostitution and addiction and sold. Cameron’s work saving upwards of 3.000 young women and girls from human trafficking is truly momentous and more people need to know about this blemished part of our American History.
A well written novel that highlights a woman’s courage, selflessness and whose work has helped thousand and the narrative of a woman forced into slavery and prostitution after a failed promise of a hopeful better life. This was a fabulous read that I highly recommend.
AUTHOR: Heather B. Moore and Allison Hong Merrill
PUB DATE: 4.11.2023 Preorder Now
GENRE: Young Adult, Historical Fiction
I LOVED THIS BOOK!
Heather B Moore and Allison Hong Merrill did an outstanding job in this heartbreaking and well researched novel about the history of the Chinese in San Francisco era 1890’s to early 1900’s. As a daughter of Chinese immigrants, this book resonated with me on how far we have come and how much more we have to go in issues of race and discrimination Chinese Americans face even today.
This is an amazing and inspiring story about a real life hero, Donaldina Cameron whose work on saving and rescuing these young women brought from China with a promise for a better life were forced into prostitution and addiction and sold. Cameron’s work saving upwards of 3.000 young women and girls from human trafficking is truly momentous and more people need to know about this blemished part of our American History.
A well written novel that highlights a woman’s courage, selflessness and whose work has helped thousand and the narrative of a woman forced into slavery and prostitution after a failed promise of a hopeful better life. This was a fabulous read that I highly recommend.
May 26, 2023
I read the original publication of this story and I'm slightly embarrassed to admit when I saw this version, adapted for young readers, I thought--"I already read it...do I really need to read a "watered down" version?" I'm here to tell you, I WAS WRONG! I was totally wrong.
While this adaptation is perfect for young readers, it's still a story that will touch every beating heart. The original focuses a bit more on Donaldina Cameron's story and this cherished story focuses on the background of one of her most dearest friends, Tien Fu Wu. I came away completely affected by two entirely different inspirational stories.
Everyone has a story and some are much more difficult than others, as is the case with many of these "paper daughters." There was a loophole that allowed these young Chinese girls to be trafficked in the late 1800s and the horrors and mistreatment they endured nearly broke my heart. I love how these things were conveyed--non-graphically and many times, implied, so that any young reader can learn this bit of history without being overwhelmed.
I love Tien Fu and her resilience and strength. I love Dolly and her wisdom and compassion. And I love the unlikely friendship and loyalty that was formed by fate. My heart has been changed for the better.
Content: light and/or vague descriptions of abuse, neglect, mistreatment
While this adaptation is perfect for young readers, it's still a story that will touch every beating heart. The original focuses a bit more on Donaldina Cameron's story and this cherished story focuses on the background of one of her most dearest friends, Tien Fu Wu. I came away completely affected by two entirely different inspirational stories.
Everyone has a story and some are much more difficult than others, as is the case with many of these "paper daughters." There was a loophole that allowed these young Chinese girls to be trafficked in the late 1800s and the horrors and mistreatment they endured nearly broke my heart. I love how these things were conveyed--non-graphically and many times, implied, so that any young reader can learn this bit of history without being overwhelmed.
I love Tien Fu and her resilience and strength. I love Dolly and her wisdom and compassion. And I love the unlikely friendship and loyalty that was formed by fate. My heart has been changed for the better.
Content: light and/or vague descriptions of abuse, neglect, mistreatment
March 13, 2023
When I saw there was a version for youth I was all over it. I love Dolly and her love for the girls at the Mission Home. She sacrificed so much to help the woman and children at the mission. Her story and the girls who lived there story is amazing. It is a part of history I new nothing about. It is sad to think this type of slavery still exists today. I can’t even imagine how Tai Choi felt once to she discovered she was going to visit her grandmother. This book was very tastefully done and I loved being able to share this story with my girls. It was a great opportunity to teach them about a topic this important to be aware of! I am the type of parent who is very open with my children about all kinds of things. But it is because I would rather them learn about these topics from me then someone else. That is my job as their parent!! I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did!
I did receive a ARC from the author and publisher via NetGalley! Thank you both for the chance to review it!
I did receive a ARC from the author and publisher via NetGalley! Thank you both for the chance to review it!
April 10, 2023
Compelling, tragic, and inspiring. The Paper Daughters of Chinatown for young readers is an adaptation from the original historical fiction novel. I was curious to see how the authors would be able to take the difficult subjects of human trafficking and slavery and create an appropriate version for young readers. Heather B. Moore and Allison Hong Merrill have definitely done it. They’ve taken the real life stories of Tien Fu Wu and Donaldina “Dolly” Cameron and expertly brought them to life for younger readers.
In the late 1800’s a loophole in the law allowed young women and children to be trafficked from China to America. Six year old Tai Choi thinks she’s traveling to visit her grandmother. Instead, she’s been sold by her father to fulfill a gambling debt. Tai Choi finds herself on a boat to America where she’s given the new name Tien Fu Wu and told to lie about why she’s coming to San Francisco. She’s soon forced into servitude where she’s beaten and punished if the child she cares for cries or if she doesn’t perform her chores satisfactorily. When she’s rescued and taken to the Occidental Mission Home for Girls, she has a difficult time trusting. She’s rightly suspicious of her new circumstances and frequently acts up.
Dolly Cameron wants to do something important. She accepts a position at the Occidental Mission teaching sewing. As she learns the girls’ tragic stories, she’s filled with compassion. When she’s asked to help perform dangerous rescue missions, she readily agrees. Dolly has a complicated relationship with Tien Fu Wu and it takes a while for her to gain her trust. But, these two form a powerful friendship as both grow throughout the story and work to rescue other young women.
Tien Fu Wu is such a great character who helps the reader understand the painful experiences she endured after being separated from her family. Dolly’s character is also inspiring and I sympathized with her compassion for the girls she rescues. I especially enjoyed how she tried to gently encourage Tien Fu Wu to do better when she discovers she’s stolen a crate of apples. Dolly also serves to shine a light on the evil practices of human trafficking, unfortunately still going on today.
I appreciated how this difficult yet little spoken of time in history was portrayed for young readers. While there are a few mentions of prostitution, opium dens, and gangs, it serves to help the reader understand the situation these children and young women were forced into. It’s sensitively handled and tastefully done with just enough detail to accomplish this task. The things these young girls went through were heartbreaking, yet they’re tempered with the kindness and love shown to them by Dolly and others. Dolly was so beloved that many called her “mother.” It’s a fantastic introduction to this tragic time in America’s history. I would recommend it to middle grade (5th & 6th grade) readers and up. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and left voluntarily. 4 1/2 stars out of 5.
In the late 1800’s a loophole in the law allowed young women and children to be trafficked from China to America. Six year old Tai Choi thinks she’s traveling to visit her grandmother. Instead, she’s been sold by her father to fulfill a gambling debt. Tai Choi finds herself on a boat to America where she’s given the new name Tien Fu Wu and told to lie about why she’s coming to San Francisco. She’s soon forced into servitude where she’s beaten and punished if the child she cares for cries or if she doesn’t perform her chores satisfactorily. When she’s rescued and taken to the Occidental Mission Home for Girls, she has a difficult time trusting. She’s rightly suspicious of her new circumstances and frequently acts up.
Dolly Cameron wants to do something important. She accepts a position at the Occidental Mission teaching sewing. As she learns the girls’ tragic stories, she’s filled with compassion. When she’s asked to help perform dangerous rescue missions, she readily agrees. Dolly has a complicated relationship with Tien Fu Wu and it takes a while for her to gain her trust. But, these two form a powerful friendship as both grow throughout the story and work to rescue other young women.
Tien Fu Wu is such a great character who helps the reader understand the painful experiences she endured after being separated from her family. Dolly’s character is also inspiring and I sympathized with her compassion for the girls she rescues. I especially enjoyed how she tried to gently encourage Tien Fu Wu to do better when she discovers she’s stolen a crate of apples. Dolly also serves to shine a light on the evil practices of human trafficking, unfortunately still going on today.
I appreciated how this difficult yet little spoken of time in history was portrayed for young readers. While there are a few mentions of prostitution, opium dens, and gangs, it serves to help the reader understand the situation these children and young women were forced into. It’s sensitively handled and tastefully done with just enough detail to accomplish this task. The things these young girls went through were heartbreaking, yet they’re tempered with the kindness and love shown to them by Dolly and others. Dolly was so beloved that many called her “mother.” It’s a fantastic introduction to this tragic time in America’s history. I would recommend it to middle grade (5th & 6th grade) readers and up. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and left voluntarily. 4 1/2 stars out of 5.
April 13, 2023
I have read this version as well as the original version of this story and it is one that needs to be read from both perspectives. Heather B. Moore and Allison Hong Merrill have captured the plight and perspective of these ladies perfectly. The fear and betrayal that occurred with these "paper.daughters" is horrific and beautifully written. I felt for each girl. To view this story from the perspective of a girl sold to cover her father's debts, betrayed and told she was visiting her grandmother, is emotional and harrowing,
This story holds all the emotion that comes from a story such as this, Thankfully these girls had rescuers to help them live a better life in a foreign world.. The story is not out of date or out of time as trafficking is still alive and well today. It is a snake that good people are fighting to destroy. If this story brings that snake into the light just a little more, it has done a world of good. I will never stop sharing this book or recommending it to others. Sometimes the stories that are the hardest to read emotionally are the ones that we need the most. This story is needed. It is needed in this version. It helps those of us who did not know to be just a little less ignorant and a little more empathetic, and maybe a little more determined to prevent future girls from suffering the same.
I received an early copy through NetGalley and this is my honest review.
This story holds all the emotion that comes from a story such as this, Thankfully these girls had rescuers to help them live a better life in a foreign world.. The story is not out of date or out of time as trafficking is still alive and well today. It is a snake that good people are fighting to destroy. If this story brings that snake into the light just a little more, it has done a world of good. I will never stop sharing this book or recommending it to others. Sometimes the stories that are the hardest to read emotionally are the ones that we need the most. This story is needed. It is needed in this version. It helps those of us who did not know to be just a little less ignorant and a little more empathetic, and maybe a little more determined to prevent future girls from suffering the same.
I received an early copy through NetGalley and this is my honest review.
October 29, 2022
Based on the true story of two friends who unite to help rescue immigrant women in San Francisco’s Chinatown in the late 1890’s.
After being sold to pay her father’s gambling debts, Tai Choi arrives in San Francisco and is forced to go by the name on her forged papers: Tien Fu Wu. Her life as a servant is hard and she must perform an endless list of chores or be severely punished. When she’s rescued by the women at the Mission Home for Girls she is willful, defiant, and unwilling to trust anyone.
Despite the challenges, Tien Fu forges a friendship with Dolly Cameron, one of the women at the home. Together, they mentor and help those in the mission home and work to win the freedom of enslave immigrant women and girls.
This was an interesting story that I had not ever heard. The rewritten version for young readers handle the subjects of slavery, prostitution and servitude in an age-appropriate manner. This book includes an historical timeline, a map of San Francisco’s Chinatown in the 19th century, author interview and a reader’s guide.
After being sold to pay her father’s gambling debts, Tai Choi arrives in San Francisco and is forced to go by the name on her forged papers: Tien Fu Wu. Her life as a servant is hard and she must perform an endless list of chores or be severely punished. When she’s rescued by the women at the Mission Home for Girls she is willful, defiant, and unwilling to trust anyone.
Despite the challenges, Tien Fu forges a friendship with Dolly Cameron, one of the women at the home. Together, they mentor and help those in the mission home and work to win the freedom of enslave immigrant women and girls.
This was an interesting story that I had not ever heard. The rewritten version for young readers handle the subjects of slavery, prostitution and servitude in an age-appropriate manner. This book includes an historical timeline, a map of San Francisco’s Chinatown in the 19th century, author interview and a reader’s guide.
December 5, 2024
I read the original Paper Daughters of Chinatown from Heather B Moore (one of my favorite authors) so I was excited to see what she and the wonderful Allison Hong Merrill would do with this adapted version for young readers. Of course, it was phenomenal. So well written, powerful, and heartfelt. Tien Fu Wu was incredible. What this amazing girl (who grew into an even more amazing woman) had to endure broke my heart. Her journey back to trust and love was very well done. All of the characters whether fictional or based on real people were handled with care, as their experiences were terrible. I was brought to tears many times while reading and I felt Dolly's sincere love for these girls.
I enjoyed the alternating point of view from Tien Fu and Donaldina Cameron's perspectives. It really helped dive into what they could have been feeling at the time. This hard topic was addressed in a way suitable for a younger audience. I appreciate the connection at the end of the this book with the main focus of the original, Mei Lien.
I received a copy from the publisher from Netgalley. All views and opinions expressed are my own.
I enjoyed the alternating point of view from Tien Fu and Donaldina Cameron's perspectives. It really helped dive into what they could have been feeling at the time. This hard topic was addressed in a way suitable for a younger audience. I appreciate the connection at the end of the this book with the main focus of the original, Mei Lien.
I received a copy from the publisher from Netgalley. All views and opinions expressed are my own.
April 8, 2023
I was excited for the chance to read this Young Readers version of The Paper Daughters of Chinatown, and that Allison Hong Merrill worked with Heather B. Moore in writing this adaptation. Having read the original book, I was looking forward to seeing how this would be adapted for younger readers. I thought it was very well written. Showing what had happened for the girls who lived and experienced these events, and yet being very tasteful and written sensitively for the targeted audience of younger readers.
My teenagers read the book and my just shy of being a teenager child has asked to read it as well, to which I said yes to. Tien Fu Wu's story is heartbreaking, inspiring and eyeopening. This adaptation focused more on Tien Fu's story, whereas the original version focused more on Donaldina, aka Dolly, Cameron. Miss Cameron does have chapters/scenes where the story is from her perspective in this adaptation which I loved seeing. Especially since there are aspects of this story that cause Dolly and Tien Fu to not be in scenes together.
I loved learning more about Tien Fu's history. Not that I loved what she went through. It was heartbreaking that she or anyone would be treated that way. But this part of her life wasn't focused on in the original version. I loved Tien Fu's character, her resilience, her strong personality and loved how the authors portrayed her as a younger child and portrayed the scenarios that shaped her and that she didn't let her strength die, but continued to build it and grow.
The relationship between Dolly and Tien Fu is developed further in the original book as it is longer and has more pages to do so. But, their relationship was just as sweet and hard won in this book and I loved seeing how the authors were able to show that real life relationship in a historical fiction book.
My teenagers were moved by this story, just as I was, and I'm sure many others will be when they read the book. It has piqued my interest between the two books to learn more about Dolly and Tien Fu and the Donaldina Cameron House and the many people who over the years have worked and sacrificed to help, care for, teach and show love and compassion to fellow humans who were placed in unforgiving circumstances.
Content: Clean. Well written for the targeted audience. There are some mild moments of peril and very mild references to some of the horrors that these paper daughters faced but nothing detailed. The brothels and drugs were very vaguely mentioned and again, were done very tastefully/sensitively for what the subject is and who the audience is.
I received a copy from the author/publisher, Shadow Mountain, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
My teenagers read the book and my just shy of being a teenager child has asked to read it as well, to which I said yes to. Tien Fu Wu's story is heartbreaking, inspiring and eyeopening. This adaptation focused more on Tien Fu's story, whereas the original version focused more on Donaldina, aka Dolly, Cameron. Miss Cameron does have chapters/scenes where the story is from her perspective in this adaptation which I loved seeing. Especially since there are aspects of this story that cause Dolly and Tien Fu to not be in scenes together.
I loved learning more about Tien Fu's history. Not that I loved what she went through. It was heartbreaking that she or anyone would be treated that way. But this part of her life wasn't focused on in the original version. I loved Tien Fu's character, her resilience, her strong personality and loved how the authors portrayed her as a younger child and portrayed the scenarios that shaped her and that she didn't let her strength die, but continued to build it and grow.
The relationship between Dolly and Tien Fu is developed further in the original book as it is longer and has more pages to do so. But, their relationship was just as sweet and hard won in this book and I loved seeing how the authors were able to show that real life relationship in a historical fiction book.
My teenagers were moved by this story, just as I was, and I'm sure many others will be when they read the book. It has piqued my interest between the two books to learn more about Dolly and Tien Fu and the Donaldina Cameron House and the many people who over the years have worked and sacrificed to help, care for, teach and show love and compassion to fellow humans who were placed in unforgiving circumstances.
Content: Clean. Well written for the targeted audience. There are some mild moments of peril and very mild references to some of the horrors that these paper daughters faced but nothing detailed. The brothels and drugs were very vaguely mentioned and again, were done very tastefully/sensitively for what the subject is and who the audience is.
I received a copy from the author/publisher, Shadow Mountain, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
February 21, 2023
The historical fiction novel The Paper Daughters of Chinatown (which has been adapted for young readers) by Heather B. Moore and Allison Hong Merrill (Shadow Mountain, April 2023) is based on the lives of two women, Donaldina Cameron and the young Tien Fu Wu. Dolly was a young charismatic woman hoping to help the unfortunate in turn-of-the century San Francisco, and Tien Fu Wu was a young Chinese girl who had been sold into slavery and sent to America. With Dolly’s determination to save the Chinese “paper daughters” in slavery, she and Tien Fu became friends who worked together to rescue and educate the girls in Chinatown.
I had heard of “paper daughters” before, and I learned more from this book. Due to the Chinese Exclusion Act (1882), it was not easy for Chinese people to immigrate to the USA, unless they had family already located here. To get around this, people would become “paper daughters” to another person: that is, a child only on paper. Unfortunately, as The Paper Daughters of Chinatown so sadly illustrates, so many young women thus arriving in America were put to work as mui tsai, or household servants. As the discerning adult can imagine, this likewise includes many young women sold into prostitution.
The book alternates between the point of view of Tien Fu Wu (who had been sold to pay her father’s gambling debts at age six) and that of Dolly Cameron, who came to the Christian charity home in Chinatown in 1894, innocently hoping to help the young girls. Although the book does illustrate Tien Fu’s childhood, the majority of the book focuses on the developing bond between the determined Miss Cameron and the bitter and hesitant ten-year-old Tien Fu.
After I read this book, I was touched to read that these two women truly worked together throughout their lives as true friends, and Tien Fu was even buried next to Miss Cameron. In the novel, I liked seeing Tien Fu’s transformation as she learned to trust, find her own worth, and love those around her who likewise needed help healing. Also, the story subtly emphasizes the role of Christianity in the charity work as well as a part of the children’s eventual transformation into capable members of society.
If I’d change anything, I’d simply like a little bit more, especially as an “additional information” note to the book. In the afterword, we do learn that we did not know Tien Fu’s original name, since she was so young when she left China. I also wanted to know which of the difficult “adventures” that Miss Cameron faced were true, and if Tien Fu’s first friend as mui tsai in China likewise was based on a real person. The coincidence of these two meeting up in San Francisco 10 years after their first meeting felt a bit too convenient. That said, it was revealing to see that even this supposedly “privileged” slave girl, who was given an education and special care as a child, was only educated and brought up to likewise become an abused teen (prostitute) in America.
The middle grade novel I read rarely uses the word prostitution, mentions opium abuse only in passing, and tones down the details of the physical abuse the children and young women had received, thus making this book a suitable book for older middle grade and teen readers. I imagine that the original adult version of this book is heartbreaking in its further detail. The theme is dark and difficult. But human trafficking is still an issue. While it is a disturbing issue, this historical account of the issue in the 1890s Chinatown in San Francisco is an important look into just one of the many underbellies of American history and even today.
I received a review copy of this book for consideration.
I had heard of “paper daughters” before, and I learned more from this book. Due to the Chinese Exclusion Act (1882), it was not easy for Chinese people to immigrate to the USA, unless they had family already located here. To get around this, people would become “paper daughters” to another person: that is, a child only on paper. Unfortunately, as The Paper Daughters of Chinatown so sadly illustrates, so many young women thus arriving in America were put to work as mui tsai, or household servants. As the discerning adult can imagine, this likewise includes many young women sold into prostitution.
The book alternates between the point of view of Tien Fu Wu (who had been sold to pay her father’s gambling debts at age six) and that of Dolly Cameron, who came to the Christian charity home in Chinatown in 1894, innocently hoping to help the young girls. Although the book does illustrate Tien Fu’s childhood, the majority of the book focuses on the developing bond between the determined Miss Cameron and the bitter and hesitant ten-year-old Tien Fu.
After I read this book, I was touched to read that these two women truly worked together throughout their lives as true friends, and Tien Fu was even buried next to Miss Cameron. In the novel, I liked seeing Tien Fu’s transformation as she learned to trust, find her own worth, and love those around her who likewise needed help healing. Also, the story subtly emphasizes the role of Christianity in the charity work as well as a part of the children’s eventual transformation into capable members of society.
If I’d change anything, I’d simply like a little bit more, especially as an “additional information” note to the book. In the afterword, we do learn that we did not know Tien Fu’s original name, since she was so young when she left China. I also wanted to know which of the difficult “adventures” that Miss Cameron faced were true, and if Tien Fu’s first friend as mui tsai in China likewise was based on a real person. The coincidence of these two meeting up in San Francisco 10 years after their first meeting felt a bit too convenient. That said, it was revealing to see that even this supposedly “privileged” slave girl, who was given an education and special care as a child, was only educated and brought up to likewise become an abused teen (prostitute) in America.
The middle grade novel I read rarely uses the word prostitution, mentions opium abuse only in passing, and tones down the details of the physical abuse the children and young women had received, thus making this book a suitable book for older middle grade and teen readers. I imagine that the original adult version of this book is heartbreaking in its further detail. The theme is dark and difficult. But human trafficking is still an issue. While it is a disturbing issue, this historical account of the issue in the 1890s Chinatown in San Francisco is an important look into just one of the many underbellies of American history and even today.
I received a review copy of this book for consideration.
April 30, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing, Shadow Mountain for accepting my request to read and review The Paper Daughters of Chinatown.
Published: 04/11/23
Genre: Children's Fiction | Teens & YA
Heartbreaking. The story was rewritten from an adult book to teen/young adult. Personally, I don't believe I could have read the adult version.
This is the water-downed story. The pieces are there without gorey details. It is enough to know a child was slapped for no reason. The abuses are insinuated and for that I'm grateful.
Little girls are sold into slavery to pay off their father's debts. For one child, her father's love for extracurricular betting was higher than any feeling towards her. If my understanding is correct, they are Paper Daughters. No, that is not bad enough, mother does more than nothing -- she keeps having human beings. The girls are never returned.
The story follows one tiny child and the paths she is thrown onto.
Another book that makes me ashamed to be human. This will stay with me the rest of my life. I am too emotionally impacted to write more.
Published: 04/11/23
Genre: Children's Fiction | Teens & YA
Heartbreaking. The story was rewritten from an adult book to teen/young adult. Personally, I don't believe I could have read the adult version.
This is the water-downed story. The pieces are there without gorey details. It is enough to know a child was slapped for no reason. The abuses are insinuated and for that I'm grateful.
Little girls are sold into slavery to pay off their father's debts. For one child, her father's love for extracurricular betting was higher than any feeling towards her. If my understanding is correct, they are Paper Daughters. No, that is not bad enough, mother does more than nothing -- she keeps having human beings. The girls are never returned.
The story follows one tiny child and the paths she is thrown onto.
Another book that makes me ashamed to be human. This will stay with me the rest of my life. I am too emotionally impacted to write more.
May 24, 2023
3.75 stars
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I have not read the full novel that this adaptation is based on. But, after reading this difficult history, I'm not sure that I could handle the full version.
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This tells the story of slavery and trafficking of Chinese girls and women in the later 1800s. It's a difficult history to read about, even in a young reader edition. But reading and learning about history is how we ensure terrible things won't happen again, so this was worth the discomfort, for sure.
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I appreciated the bibliography at the end of the book, and will definitely look up some of those resources to learn more. The actual story in this felt a bit choppy and disjointed, making it difficult at times to keep the time and characters straight.
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There are so many hidden heroes in history, and I'm so glad to learn about these amazing women who overcame so much and who risked so much to help others escape the terror of that time.
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CW: abuse, trafficking, racism. There is implied prostitution, but it's not graphic or even mentioned outright in this book for younger readers.
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Thanks to the author for sending me a copy of this book to read. All opinions are mine.
.
I have not read the full novel that this adaptation is based on. But, after reading this difficult history, I'm not sure that I could handle the full version.
.
This tells the story of slavery and trafficking of Chinese girls and women in the later 1800s. It's a difficult history to read about, even in a young reader edition. But reading and learning about history is how we ensure terrible things won't happen again, so this was worth the discomfort, for sure.
.
I appreciated the bibliography at the end of the book, and will definitely look up some of those resources to learn more. The actual story in this felt a bit choppy and disjointed, making it difficult at times to keep the time and characters straight.
.
There are so many hidden heroes in history, and I'm so glad to learn about these amazing women who overcame so much and who risked so much to help others escape the terror of that time.
.
CW: abuse, trafficking, racism. There is implied prostitution, but it's not graphic or even mentioned outright in this book for younger readers.
.
Thanks to the author for sending me a copy of this book to read. All opinions are mine.
February 13, 2023
Firstly, I’d like to thank the author, the publisher and NetGalley for this advanced reader’s copy of the book.
Now that that’s done, let’s proceed to the praise and adoration I have for this book.
The book talks about an issue prevalent in both past and present society, one which needs to be talked about more. The author picks apart the problematic of human slavery and trafficking of Chinese girls overseas in an understandable way for both older and younger readers. While based on reality, the book possesses a sense of storytelling which can be hard to find. The story lines contained in the book are told in a realistic, interesting but mostly captivating way which indulges in the reader’s curiosity towards the truth and hard facts regarding this subject.
The characters’ personalities, opinions, quirks and backgrounds are presented in a very relatable way despite them being rooted in heartbreak and sadness. They are multifaceted and are proof of the fact that a coin is always two-sided and a book should not be judged by its cover. We can observe significant character development in more than one of the individuals, evoking a sense of hopefulness.
The plot progresses at a medium or slightly rapid pace which is quite convenient as some readers might be prone to leave off reading for a bit when it comes to tragic subjects such as this one. The pacing helps in keeping the reader’s attention and the pages are constantly getting flipped further and further (at least in my case).
Overall, the author managed to write a story based in heartbreaking events and issues needed to be discussed more and made it accessible and adequate to young readers. They show a mastery of adaptation to a younger audience, especially with the themes present. Therefore, I would like to commend the author for a job marvelously done.
Now that that’s done, let’s proceed to the praise and adoration I have for this book.
The book talks about an issue prevalent in both past and present society, one which needs to be talked about more. The author picks apart the problematic of human slavery and trafficking of Chinese girls overseas in an understandable way for both older and younger readers. While based on reality, the book possesses a sense of storytelling which can be hard to find. The story lines contained in the book are told in a realistic, interesting but mostly captivating way which indulges in the reader’s curiosity towards the truth and hard facts regarding this subject.
The characters’ personalities, opinions, quirks and backgrounds are presented in a very relatable way despite them being rooted in heartbreak and sadness. They are multifaceted and are proof of the fact that a coin is always two-sided and a book should not be judged by its cover. We can observe significant character development in more than one of the individuals, evoking a sense of hopefulness.
The plot progresses at a medium or slightly rapid pace which is quite convenient as some readers might be prone to leave off reading for a bit when it comes to tragic subjects such as this one. The pacing helps in keeping the reader’s attention and the pages are constantly getting flipped further and further (at least in my case).
Overall, the author managed to write a story based in heartbreaking events and issues needed to be discussed more and made it accessible and adequate to young readers. They show a mastery of adaptation to a younger audience, especially with the themes present. Therefore, I would like to commend the author for a job marvelously done.
April 6, 2023
I received an ARC from Shadow Mountain and NetGalley in exchange for my opinions.
Genre: Historical Fiction
Audience: YA, upper MG
THE PAPER DAUGHTERS OF CHINATOWN gripped me from the opening page. The authors, Heather B. Moore and Allison Hong Merrill, have both won writing awards, and this book is the perfect fusion of their many talents.
My heart positively ached for Tai Choi, who is renamed Tien Fu Wu. To only be six-years-old and sent away from your family. I'm amazed she could remember much about them. Tien Fu is not your average girl—she's full of snark as well as distrust.
Dolly, Donaldina Cameron, sacrificed so much to changing the lives of the girls rescued and housed within the mission home. The way Tien Fu's journey intertwines with Dolly's life shows how we are stronger together, how we can work for a common goal, and how we can built trust. It's absolutely fabulous. Historically, these two women remained close until Dolly passed away.
This book deals with the serious subject of human trafficking—specifically around the Chinese girls and women who were sent to America, sold into slavery in the late 1800s to the early 1900s. A classroom could coordinate reading this book with teaching about the current state of human trafficking, history, immigration laws, danger from gangs, changes within the court systems, and cultural differences.
The authors are able to put everything on the page in a slightly softened way—meaning there are not long explanations of the function of brothels or the prostitutes. However, there is violence on the page with physical and emotional abuse. Opium usage is also mentioned.
I highly recommend this book! It's such an important topic to consider how we treat others and how we can learn from the past.
Happy reading!
Genre: Historical Fiction
Audience: YA, upper MG
THE PAPER DAUGHTERS OF CHINATOWN gripped me from the opening page. The authors, Heather B. Moore and Allison Hong Merrill, have both won writing awards, and this book is the perfect fusion of their many talents.
My heart positively ached for Tai Choi, who is renamed Tien Fu Wu. To only be six-years-old and sent away from your family. I'm amazed she could remember much about them. Tien Fu is not your average girl—she's full of snark as well as distrust.
Dolly, Donaldina Cameron, sacrificed so much to changing the lives of the girls rescued and housed within the mission home. The way Tien Fu's journey intertwines with Dolly's life shows how we are stronger together, how we can work for a common goal, and how we can built trust. It's absolutely fabulous. Historically, these two women remained close until Dolly passed away.
This book deals with the serious subject of human trafficking—specifically around the Chinese girls and women who were sent to America, sold into slavery in the late 1800s to the early 1900s. A classroom could coordinate reading this book with teaching about the current state of human trafficking, history, immigration laws, danger from gangs, changes within the court systems, and cultural differences.
The authors are able to put everything on the page in a slightly softened way—meaning there are not long explanations of the function of brothels or the prostitutes. However, there is violence on the page with physical and emotional abuse. Opium usage is also mentioned.
I highly recommend this book! It's such an important topic to consider how we treat others and how we can learn from the past.
Happy reading!
December 19, 2022
This is an important and cautionary book for young women. Very well written and engaging true story that most Americans are not aware of. Great read for YA readers.
April 10, 2023
True story of a child sold by her father.
I wondered how the author would make a book about human trafficking appropriate for younger readers, but she succeeded. The seriousness of slavery and abuse is clear without being too scary or graphic. Because of Chinese anti-immigration laws, the girls were given a new name and false papers, so they become paper daughters. Ironically, the girls were also taught to be afraid of Dolly to keep them from being rescued.
This is the true story of Tien Fu Wu, a resilient woman, who was sold by her father to pay his gambling debts in 1892 when she was six years old. Her life was incredibly heartbreaking, but she was able to overcome the things she experienced and help thousands of other girls in similar situations.
Donaldina/Dolly Cameron is a true hero. She rescued about 3,000 girls from slavery while working at the Occidental Board Presbyterian Mission Home in San Francisco, California. Dolly frequently faced many dangers as she stood up to groups of violent men who wanted to stop her. She had faith that God was with her and would help her accomplish the work she was led to do.
Between thirty-five and fifty girls lived at the mission home at any time. They were taught to read and write their native Chinese as well as English. They were also taught to sew and cook, and college was even provided for some of them who chose to go.
I read both the regular version and this one for younger readers and I prefer this version. This is a remarkable story that needs to be told but it’s nice to read it without all the ugly details. Thanks to Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley for an ARC to use for my review.
I wondered how the author would make a book about human trafficking appropriate for younger readers, but she succeeded. The seriousness of slavery and abuse is clear without being too scary or graphic. Because of Chinese anti-immigration laws, the girls were given a new name and false papers, so they become paper daughters. Ironically, the girls were also taught to be afraid of Dolly to keep them from being rescued.
This is the true story of Tien Fu Wu, a resilient woman, who was sold by her father to pay his gambling debts in 1892 when she was six years old. Her life was incredibly heartbreaking, but she was able to overcome the things she experienced and help thousands of other girls in similar situations.
Donaldina/Dolly Cameron is a true hero. She rescued about 3,000 girls from slavery while working at the Occidental Board Presbyterian Mission Home in San Francisco, California. Dolly frequently faced many dangers as she stood up to groups of violent men who wanted to stop her. She had faith that God was with her and would help her accomplish the work she was led to do.
Between thirty-five and fifty girls lived at the mission home at any time. They were taught to read and write their native Chinese as well as English. They were also taught to sew and cook, and college was even provided for some of them who chose to go.
I read both the regular version and this one for younger readers and I prefer this version. This is a remarkable story that needs to be told but it’s nice to read it without all the ugly details. Thanks to Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley for an ARC to use for my review.
February 23, 2023
" Some of the girls are kidnapped and their families have no idea that their daughters are alive. The girls take on new names in America, so they become paper daughters without a home. Without care of love. "
This version of The Paper Daughters of Chinatown is adapted novel from same title but for young adult readers. The story following a young girl name Tien Fu Wu whom sold into slavery by her own father since childhood. She was a smart and fierce girl. My heart so broken saw her cruel journey break her spirit slowly. But her story also give us big hope when she meet her rescuer Miss Cameron and help her to save another girls from same path.
Her story was happened at 130 years ago, the book started with question why we should care now? Because human trafficking still become big issue right now and read this book will awaken awareness in the world expecially between young readers. This book really amazing and perfect for reader who love historical story based on true event.
Thank you Netgalley and Shadow Mountain Publisher for provided me my copy. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
This version of The Paper Daughters of Chinatown is adapted novel from same title but for young adult readers. The story following a young girl name Tien Fu Wu whom sold into slavery by her own father since childhood. She was a smart and fierce girl. My heart so broken saw her cruel journey break her spirit slowly. But her story also give us big hope when she meet her rescuer Miss Cameron and help her to save another girls from same path.
Her story was happened at 130 years ago, the book started with question why we should care now? Because human trafficking still become big issue right now and read this book will awaken awareness in the world expecially between young readers. This book really amazing and perfect for reader who love historical story based on true event.
Thank you Netgalley and Shadow Mountain Publisher for provided me my copy. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 7, 2023
Language: G (0 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG
At age six, Tai Choi is sold by her father and then several other adults in rapid succession. They take the legacy of her family by unbinding her feet, they take away her country when they sell her in America, and they take away her name. Dolly (27yo) is excited for the opportunity to teach sewing skills to Chinese girls who have been rescued from trafficking, and she quickly becomes more involved in the rescue process – even as it threatens her life.
Based on a true story, this book has been adapted for young readers. The pain and sorrow and hope and triumphs are still moving, despite knowing this is the watered-down version. Knowing that human trafficking did and does happen makes readers more grateful, encourages readers to not lose hope in the face of their difficulties, and inspires readers to find ways to do good. We can be strong. We can become advocates for good.
All of the characters mentioned are either Chinese or White. The mature content rating is for mentions of brothels and prostitution, human trafficking, innuendo, and mentions of drugs. The violence rating is for child abuse, gun use, and murder.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
At age six, Tai Choi is sold by her father and then several other adults in rapid succession. They take the legacy of her family by unbinding her feet, they take away her country when they sell her in America, and they take away her name. Dolly (27yo) is excited for the opportunity to teach sewing skills to Chinese girls who have been rescued from trafficking, and she quickly becomes more involved in the rescue process – even as it threatens her life.
Based on a true story, this book has been adapted for young readers. The pain and sorrow and hope and triumphs are still moving, despite knowing this is the watered-down version. Knowing that human trafficking did and does happen makes readers more grateful, encourages readers to not lose hope in the face of their difficulties, and inspires readers to find ways to do good. We can be strong. We can become advocates for good.
All of the characters mentioned are either Chinese or White. The mature content rating is for mentions of brothels and prostitution, human trafficking, innuendo, and mentions of drugs. The violence rating is for child abuse, gun use, and murder.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
November 23, 2022
I had already read The Paper Daughters of Chinatown, and I was so excited to see the version for young readers! I thought this was beautifully adapted for a younger audience. It handled hard topics with age-level appropriateness. The stories of Dolly and Tien Fu are so inspirational.
I definitely recommend this book as a historical fiction to teach young people about this time period.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing, NetGalley, and the authors for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
I definitely recommend this book as a historical fiction to teach young people about this time period.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing, NetGalley, and the authors for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
November 22, 2022
Thank you to the publisher for giving me a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
I really really enjoyed this book, not only was it interesting to read through the eyes of a 7 year old girl but it was also mesmerising to read about the slave trade in China and America, how social standards of beauty are perceived in different countries (the foot binding in the beginning) and the character decelopment in this book was simply amazing too.
I especially loved the ending, without spoiling anything I loved the full circle kind of moment in the ending and I was very content with it since I felt like it fit well for the end of the book itself.
Definitely recommend!
I really really enjoyed this book, not only was it interesting to read through the eyes of a 7 year old girl but it was also mesmerising to read about the slave trade in China and America, how social standards of beauty are perceived in different countries (the foot binding in the beginning) and the character decelopment in this book was simply amazing too.
I especially loved the ending, without spoiling anything I loved the full circle kind of moment in the ending and I was very content with it since I felt like it fit well for the end of the book itself.
Definitely recommend!
November 18, 2022
The Paper Daughters of Chinatown is an excellent story for middle-grade and young-adult readers. Who wants to know about the history that is sadly not talked about? It tells the sad history of the Chinese girls brought to America after being stolen or sold by their families, and it tells their story about their courage, compassion, and strength of what they overcame. They mention prostitution in passing, but most references to opium are left out. This aspect of history is unfamiliar to many, and it will be an excellent addition to historical fiction collections for teen readers and people who want to know more.
February 19, 2023
I loved the original version of this book so was very curious to see what the young-adult version would be like. Naturally, it didn’t have the depth of emotion and details as the adult version, but was still incredibly powerful and an important story. Both harrowing, but filled with hope, it is a book i will continue to recommend to friends and family, and now with a version to suggest to younger audiences!
April 8, 2023
*Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book for review, all opinions are my own*
Even before I started reading I already knew I was going to like this story but I'm happy to see that I liked it after reading it.
It was a much faster read than I was imagining, I just can't say that it's a read that can be done in one day because it's a story with very heavy topics so look for trigger warnings before reading because even though it's an adaptation for young readers it's still a story that touches on sensitive but extremely important topics.
It is a book that I think everyone should read.
I highly recommend!
Even before I started reading I already knew I was going to like this story but I'm happy to see that I liked it after reading it.
It was a much faster read than I was imagining, I just can't say that it's a read that can be done in one day because it's a story with very heavy topics so look for trigger warnings before reading because even though it's an adaptation for young readers it's still a story that touches on sensitive but extremely important topics.
It is a book that I think everyone should read.
I highly recommend!
November 17, 2022
I already loved this book but I think I might love this more. This version crafts a story for any reader to follow but still captures the feeling of it.
June 1, 2023
Full disclosure: I finished The Paper Daughters of Chinatown: Adapted for Young Readers about a month ago but didn’t write the review until now because I didn’t know how to put my thoughts into words. This story is so achingly beautiful!
The story starts with a young girl, Tai Choi, who was told that she is going to go visit her grandmother in a different province of China in the late 1800s. Her father escorts her to the ship where she is subsequently locked in a small room for the duration of the voyage.
Dolly Cameron, a Scottish woman who grew up with a loving family outside of San Francisco, decided to go teach sewing at the Occidental Mission Home in San Francisco. She quickly realizes that the girls in the mission home need love, kindness, consistency, and a feeling of safety more than anything else. Especially Tien Fu. (Formerly known as Tai Choi)
This book, based on the true story of Dolly and Tien Fu, encapsulates the good one person can do! Trust is earned. Love is not bound by blood. Good can triumph over evil- if someone is willing to fight for it!
This book is a must read with young readers! It opens the door to talk about hard topics in our world today without going overboard. The door is opened to not only talk about racism, discrimination, and human trafficking, but also to talk about determination, loyalty, love, respect, and sacrifice.
I am so grateful for the example that Tien Fu, Dolly Cameron, and so many others have set! When my girls are old enough, this is a book we will read and discuss together. Fight to be the light in the world!
Read this book if you like:
🏮 Survival
🏮 Sisterhood
🏮True Stories
🏮 Experiencing the heartache in order to truly appreciate the joy!
🏮Dual POV
🏮 Hard conversation starters
🏮 Teachable moments
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The story starts with a young girl, Tai Choi, who was told that she is going to go visit her grandmother in a different province of China in the late 1800s. Her father escorts her to the ship where she is subsequently locked in a small room for the duration of the voyage.
Dolly Cameron, a Scottish woman who grew up with a loving family outside of San Francisco, decided to go teach sewing at the Occidental Mission Home in San Francisco. She quickly realizes that the girls in the mission home need love, kindness, consistency, and a feeling of safety more than anything else. Especially Tien Fu. (Formerly known as Tai Choi)
This book, based on the true story of Dolly and Tien Fu, encapsulates the good one person can do! Trust is earned. Love is not bound by blood. Good can triumph over evil- if someone is willing to fight for it!
This book is a must read with young readers! It opens the door to talk about hard topics in our world today without going overboard. The door is opened to not only talk about racism, discrimination, and human trafficking, but also to talk about determination, loyalty, love, respect, and sacrifice.
I am so grateful for the example that Tien Fu, Dolly Cameron, and so many others have set! When my girls are old enough, this is a book we will read and discuss together. Fight to be the light in the world!
Read this book if you like:
🏮 Survival
🏮 Sisterhood
🏮True Stories
🏮 Experiencing the heartache in order to truly appreciate the joy!
🏮Dual POV
🏮 Hard conversation starters
🏮 Teachable moments
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 10, 2022
Loved both versions of this book .. well written and hard topic to cover ..but loved the story line and how the author told the story …. I would definitely recommend this book to others to read ..
December 26, 2022
This is a story that has stuck with me since reading the last page. This book is fantastic and so incredibly interesting as it shines a bright light on part of history I knew nothing about! I have not read the original as this one was adapted for young readers. This is a GREAT book. I was sucked into the story from the start and all of the characters and the great risk that these women took to save others simply blows me away. I can understand why this story had to be rewritten for a younger audience as there are some pretty terrible things that happen to the young women in this story. But it was written in a way that got the point across without being graphic. I thought the writing was great and the flow of the story and historical time line excellent. I loved this book and I think everyone should read about the history of the Occidental Mission Home/Donaldina Cameron House. It is inspiring!
Five stars.
" I received this book from Shadow Mountain Publishing for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
Five stars.
" I received this book from Shadow Mountain Publishing for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
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