Well I was glad that I was prepared for this emotional tale as it was pretty heartbreaking at points, more so because I knew that it was based on real events.
As I said in my previous blog, I couldn’t help but compare this book as I went along to ‘Spilled Water’ as I have only recently read it. The main character in Chinese Cinderella, Adeline, was not from a poor background and not suffering from consequences of poverty unlike Lu Sin Yan in Spilled Water. However, the neglect and ill treatment by her family was equally upsetting and just goes to show that it is your choices and actions in life which show what you truly are; having a wealthy family doesn’t always make you happy. Even though Lu Sin Yan’s family had little money, I would prefer to live with her loving mother rather than be in Adelines situation.
I also found learning about Chinese culture fascinating, particularly the discussions Adeline had with her grandfather about Chinese writing as it is all in pictoral form (not with letters). In addition, I learnt a bit about the political situation in China after WW2 where there was much unrest which resulted in the take over by the Communists.
I would recommend this book to children in my class who are comfortable with reading texts which could be a bit emotionally upsetting. For example, if you have enjoyed books like: The Diary of Anne Frank; Goodnight Mister Tom by Michelle Margorian or Private Peacful by Micheal Morpurgo, this may be a good next book for you.
I’ve read diary of Anne frank and goodnight Mr Tom so Chinese Cinderella will be cool xx
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On second thoughts I might not give it a go. After watching a 5 minute clip in class and finding that upsetting, I’m not sure I can cope. Well.. you never know I might as well try it. If you have got it on your bookshelf, please could you let me know? xx
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It should be there… Have a look tomorrow š
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Do you know if it is back on your bookshelf yet? I’ve finished arsenic for tea and I’m reading the hero pup to keep me occupied until Monday. If you do have Chinese Cinderella back please could you let me know, I will hopefully (and by hopefully I mean will) finish it before you leave so you’ll have it before you leave.x
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