Judy

This story gives an excellent insight into life in China in the 70s and 80s experienced though the life of a peasant boy.

Well developed story...good balance of suspense and romance. Good development of character and personalities. The story is intriguing.

A lovely short story that gives a great insight into the impact of the cultural revolution on real people.

A fairly interesting story about the perceived role and status of men and women in Chinese society in the early part of the 20th C. The struggle between duty and desire runs through the course of the novel. Having listened to Peony earlier, I couldn't help comparing the two. I found Peony more engaging and better crafted as a story.

I'm not familiar with the print version but I found this audiobook to be excellent. The story was riveting. I had found the first chapter rather slow going, but once the story moved into the second and subsequent chapters I found myself hooked. The themes of loyalty, religiosity, power and love were interestingly interwoven in the story. It was very well read.

Perhaps the point where Leah killed herself. I never saw that coming and it was certainly a critical turning point.

The one that saw David and his father spending the night out on a boat for dinner with their friends.

Yes...but I think it is best heard in short sittings as there is much to ponder upon as the story unfolds.

You've done a super job with this version !

The story is captivating as it reflects on the struggles of the poor in India and the arrogance and debauchery of the rich. It is provactive in parts and disturbing in others. I expected a stronger Indian accent to be apparent in the reading of the narrative and was a little disappointed that this was not so - but I got used to it after the first half hour and grew more intrigued by the story thereafter.