Chinese Cinderella by Adeline Yen Mah
Chinese Cinderella is a tribute to the unwanted and lonely children of the world – an autobiography of an unwanted daughter in a powerful Chinese family. The story allows the reader to glimpse into life in twentieth-century China, where Mah describes the post-war environment she grew up in in Tianjin in detail, being occupied by Japanese soldiers and the French alike. Writing about her biography was “difficult and painful to write, but [she] felt compelled to do so.” Her autobiography recounts the painful experiences of her childhood, being considered “bad luck” by her family due to her mother passing away giving birth to her. Her father remarries, and Mah is subjected to the neglect and abuse of her new stepmother and siblings, while traversing her new life in Shanghai.
Chinese Cinderella is not a recount of Mah’s memories – but a story of courage, hard work, and truth to oneself – despite lacking the love and understanding she had wished for her whole childhood. It’s truly a testament to everyone who feels unloved and unsupported in this world, from the “Chinese Cinderella” herself. She teaches you that you may defy your own odds, build your own future, and you will always find your own kind of love. There is always a light at the end of the tunnel. I’m genuinely grateful I came upon this book; everyone should get to read it.
Reviewed by Teen Volunteer, 11/17/24.