A touching an interesting story about a Chinese girl growing up in difficult times and under difficult circumstances. Her mother did soon after her birth. Her father mostly ignores his youngest daughter, while her step mother abuses her emotionally and physically.

I found the story an interesting insight in Chinese culture and history. I especially liked the Chinese proverbs and names spelled out in Chinese letters and I learned a lot about the cultural revolution that I never read in any history books.

While the family story was fascinating and touching, after some time it becomes a bit tedious to see how the now grown up children fall into the traps set by their scheming step mother again and again. But I guess that's just the case with abusive relationships. To be honest, I think the story could have done with a bit of editing and maybe a co-author. But it remains a fascinating and touching family history. Well worth a read.