This is a powerful story of a girl who comes of age and fights to survive during the Cultural Revolution (1966-1969). Nine-year-old Ling leads a happy life with her parents, who are both dedicated doctors. Her world gradually starts to disintegrate when Comrade Li, one of Mao's political officers, moves into their apartment. In an atmosphere of increasing mistrust, Ling fears for the safety of her neighbours, and soon for herself and her parents. Over the course of four years, and despite witnessing many horrors, Ling not only survives, but manages to bloom as well.

 

There are 256 pages in this book. It is a novel. This book was published 2008 by Walker Books Ltd .

Ying Chang Compestine was born and raised in China. She is a national authority on Chinese cuisine and culture and the author of three cookbooks for adults and eight picture books for children. She lives in California with her family. This is her first novel.