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Community comment are the opinions of contributing users. These comment do not represent the opinions of Daniel Boone Regional Library.
Jun 28, 2018FVReader rated this title 4.5 out of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this read. The characters were real, damaged and good at heart. They lived in horrible times that caught them in a lifestyle mess where they had no control on any aspect of their lives. I think this novel did a good job in showing the hardships and uncertainties of living in such a regime and of drawing the reader in, making them care for these characters, to show the fear and uncertainty that citizens faced every day. I enjoyed the use of music to flow throughout. The music showed discord, harmony, strife and was always looking for a way to work as a whole and to bring serenity, joy and hope into the piece. Music can be interpreted in different ways by each individual; just as the Mao regime could be. Music is heard when played; one cannot turn off one's ears.....just as the situation in China is lived and cannot be stopped. A powerful story of a horrible time, showing human resilience and determination. Note: the situation of "work assignments" and tearing families apart reminded me of the Residential School situation in North America but on a larger scale. In both situations, families are torn apart and family members are left lost, alone, confused, frightened and emotionally scarred in a way that continues through the generations. It's an utterly horrible situation, no matter where it happens.