Heart-breaking yet inspiring

Having this audiobook narrated by the author was so powerful. Interesting to hear her incredible story and also learn a little about China's history.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Fell in love with the author and her spirit!

remember this book from childhood and was so happy to find it again. amazing read

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

So heartfelt.

I could hear her voice cracking at the emotional parts. I hope no one ever has to go through what she did ever again. I’m so sorry. That must have been a very painful experience, losing your Nai Nai so young. My grandmother died before my mum became an adult so I never met her.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Touching story emotionally read

I read this autobiography for the first time years ago, and returning to it now, it's still as touching and engrossing as it was over a decade ago. While the author reads a little awkwardly on occasion, it lends an authenticity to the story that I truly appreciated. At points you can hear deep emotion in her voice as certain events she writes about clearly still affect to this day.
I love this book as hearing how Adeline overcame the cruel events of her childhood is truly inspirational and awe inspiring. This is definitely an audiobook that I got lost in–I popped it on "for just a few minutes" and an hour and a half later had to shut my phone off to stop (as otherwise I was going to be late).
If the reading performance from the sample bothers you, she does limber up a bit as the book goes on. I personally got used to it very quickly and I found her reading style to make the book authentic. It was also nice to hear how some of the Chinese words (like Ye Ye for grandfather and Nai Nai for grandmother) and names were actually supposed to be pronounced (what I had assumed from reading the text alone had been...totally incorrect).
100% recommended.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

1 person found this helpful

A Heat Wrenching Story Beautifully Told

I first read this book as a child and I have never forgotten it. In fact I moved to Hong Kong and I’ve always wondered if this book is what planted that seed that inspired me to go. It is a heartbreaking story but inspiring and the audiobook gives it so much depth. Although so many disturbing subjects I never thought I’d get so emotional about a duckling it is impossible to stop listening. Adeline thank you for becoming part of your readers hearts and families.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Moving Autobiography

Wonderfully read by the author herself - I could hear the emotion and intensity in her voice whilst she spoke of her childhood. Thank you Adeline Yen Mah for sharing your experience, both written and spoken, in your novel.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Heartbreaking neglect

A huge fan of falling leaves, this book crystallised a lot of what was left out in that first book of Adeline’s which I read.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Heartbreaking and Inspiring

The combination of plot, character and reflection. The message of how crucial it is to be kind and to believe in others. An insight into Chinese culture.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!