Revolution Is Not a Dinner Party

By: Ying Chang Compestine

Narrated by: Jodi Long

Nine-year-old Ling is very comfortable with her life; her parents are both dedicated doctors in the best hospital in Wuhan. But when Comrade Li, one of Mao’s political officers, moves into a room in their apartment, Ling begins to witness the gradual disintegration of her world. In an atmosphere of increasing mistrust, Ling fears for the safety of her neighbors, and soon for herself and family. Over the course of four years, Ling manages to blossom, even as she suffers more horrors than many people face in a lifetime.

Drawing from her childhood experience, Ying Chang Compestine brings hope and humor to this powerful story of a girl who comes of age and fights to survive during the Cultural Revolution.©2007 Ying Chang Compestine; (P)2007 Random House Inc. Listening Library, an imprint of the Random House Audio Publishing Group

An eye into everyday life during Mao's reign.

My children and I loved this book. It was a good pace and long enough to accompany us on a few of our monthly, hour long trips.

The characters were relatable, especially for my 9 & 10 year old. The story was appropriate for their age, although near the end it did get a little intense.

We really liked the performance and all of the different voices she did. My daughter thought there was more than one person, because the voices sounded so distinct.

Good for students over 12

This is a very good book. I enjoyed it and I think it is very educational. However I would not recommend it for anyone under the age of 12 or someone who has a sensitive heart because of the unjust treatment of the main character and her family and friends.

Marchelle’s opinion

I was a Mao supporter but was fully unaw
are of the unspeakable trauma he wrought in order to gain support. I want to thank this author for being so candid and sharing her childhood experience under Mao’s rule.

Quick Read

This has been a fast and interesting read. It gives a good perspective of the life of a young lady caught between loving her parents and her community.