Wild Swans discussion

I have not yet finished this book, but I am shocked…not only about what the Chinese have suffered, but also at my own ignorance of what was happening there in my lifetime. I am interested in others' opinions of this book, especially those who are more informed about Chinese history. I must learn more. What other books are well researched, yet readable? I did a little research on Goodreads and it appears there is a good book based on the diaries of Mao's doctor…???

What got me was that I'd heard about various events, but never been able to put them all together - and this book joined it all up for me in the lives of one family.

Lesley wrote: "What got me was that I'd heard about various events, but never been able to put them all together - and this book joined it all up for me in the lives of one family."

Yes, that is so true. Have you read other books about Chinese history that you could recommend? Thanks!

Susan wrote: "I have not yet finished this book, but I am shocked…not only about what the Chinese have suffered, but also at my own ignorance of what was happening there in my lifetime. I am interested in oth..."

I recommend two books: Life and Death in Shanghai, by Cheng Nien will give you a more thorough history; Feather in the Storm, by Emily Wu, is a very readable and personal account. I hope you enjoy them.

S. Rose

Thank you! I just finished "Life and Death in Shanghai," and you are right; it expanded my knowledge based on "Wild Swans." I will check on "Feather in the Storm," though I had to take a little break from this very disturbing subject. Again...thanks!

Susan wrote: "I have not yet finished this book, but I am shocked…not only about what the Chinese have suffered, but also at my own ignorance of what was happening there in my lifetime. I am interested in oth..."

I read the biography of Mao based on his doctor and found it fascinating. Wild Swans is by far my favorite book about the Chinese revolution, but Mao is an intriguing man, not easily understood. There does not seem to be a excellent biography of him and I'm hoping some talented historian will take up the task. In the meantime, there's the one based on his doctor.

Life and Death in Shanghai is worth reading but comes nowhere near Wild Swans.

I read Wild Swans twice, as there is so much history it requires two readings to really understand the subject matter. This should be a must read for everyone. As earlier commenters mentioned a wealth of history between the pages.

A good history of china through three generations of women. Totally opened
my eyes.

I tried to read it again but I didn't appreciate it much the second time. I had doubts about the reliablity of her story. How could her mother recall how she was feeling at two years old? The good thing though is that we learn a lot about the history of China.