This is a unique story of triumph over adversity, told against the background of the Nationalist/Communist struggle for control of China. Adeline Yen Mah’s family considered her to be bad luck because her mother died shortly after giving birth to her. They discriminated against her and singled her out for cruel treatment, eventually abandoning her in a convent school. Yen Mah tells her story with extraordinary honesty and without bitterness, making this an absorbing read for young people. Eventually she proved her worth at school earning the respect of her teachers and friends. ~ Andrea Reece
More than 800,000 copies in print! From the author of critically acclaimed and bestselling memoir Falling Leaves, this is a poignant and moving true account of her childhood, growing up as an unloved daughter in 1940s China.
A Chinese proverb says, "Falling leaves return to their roots." In her own courageous voice, Adeline Yen Mah returns to her roots to tell the story of her painful childhood and her ultimate triumph in the face of despair.
Adeline's affluent, powerful family considers her bad luck after her mother dies giving birth to her, and life does not get any easier when her father remarries. Adeline and her siblings are subjected to the disdain of her stepmother, while her stepbrother and stepsister are spoiled with gifts and attention. Although Adeline wins prizes at school, they are not enough to compensate for what she really yearns for -- the love and understanding of her family. Like the classic Cinderella story, this powerful memoir is a moving story of resilience and hope.
Includes an Author's Note, a 6-page photo insert, a historical note, and the Chinese text of the original Chinese Cinderella.
A PW BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR
AN ALA-YALSA BEST BOOK FOR YOUNG ADULTS "One of the most inspiring books I have ever read." -The Guardian
Adeline Yen Mah was born in Tianjin, China. Her mother died two weeks after her birth and Adeline was considered to be a source of bad luck by her family. Her father remarried a beautiful Eurasian woman one year later. She was half French and half Chinese and divided the Yen family into two different classes. Adeline's father, stepmother and their two children were the upper class, whereas Adeline and the four other step-children by the first wife were considered second class. ~ from Adeline Yen Mah's publisher
I’ve never encountered a book as emotional as this one. 'Chinese Cinderella' moved me to tears and is undoubtedly one of the best books I’ve read this year. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would highly recommend it. Be prepared, though—it’s incredibly heart breaking and distressing!
I have never come across a book that has touched me as deeply as Chinese Cinderella. This poignant and powerful story moved me to tears on multiple occasions. It stands out as one of the most emotionally charged and compelling books I have read this year. The narrative is so beautifully crafted that it draws you in from the very first page and keeps you captivated until the very end.
Chinese Cinderella is not just a book; it is an emotional journey that takes you through the highs and lows of the protagonist’s life. The author’s ability to convey such raw and heartfelt emotions is truly remarkable.... Read Full Review
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