Life and Death in Shanghai, Nien Cheng
(original book review posted August 5, 2016)
Word of caution: when you've been wacked out on general anesthesia is NO TIME to tackle a book with a lot of Chinese names in it. Just saying... A few months later when I had my brain back (ish), I tackled this book recommended by a good friend in my neighborhood.
Nien Cheng spent 7 years in a prison in China BECAUSE SHE WOULD NOT LIE. Yep.
Chairman Mao - the greatest mass murderer of the 20th century, was having a massive political shakedown, and Mao's wife wanted to take out a political enemy by discrediting him. Only one problem: Nien Cheng would not lie to save her own skin, so they threw her in prison. Through numerous interrogations, she continued to tell the truth, much to the chagrin of those responsible. Finally, in exasperation and after the political wind had shifted, she was released.
This book is an incredible look at the "cultural" revolution Mao perpetrated on the Chinese people to fundamentally change public perception of the government, and one woman who paid a high price for not riding the wave. Her account of the political climate that led to her arrest is presciently chilling - and her account of what she did to try to stay healthy in prison - both physically and spiritually - is inspiring.
Mrs. Cheng wrote this book after she had immigrated to the U.S. in her 60's - in English! - her second language! She is an absolutely amazing woman that I am so honored to know through her simple, honest, solid, and true writing.
I credit having read 4 biographies with my awakening; Eleni was one, this was another. Stories matter; well-told stories change the world.
Great story