'falling leaves' critical book review
This book is an autobiography of a young Chinese girl named Adeline Yen Mah growing up during the 1950's until her adulthood. She struggles against her own family issues, including an awful stepmother and a passive father. Also, with a rift of change occurring in China, Adeline must find her place in the world and make her way without a stable support system and with fear of political transformations. Through all her hardships, Adeline comes to find true happiness in a fulfilling career and loving husband and especially in making peace with her past. The main thesis of this book is that love and determination can help overcome any hardship that may be faced in life.
Growing up, Adeline expressed her desire to become a writer some day. Her father rejected the idea and said he wanted her to be a doctor instead. Adeline is fulfilling a lifelong dream by writing this book and pursuing something that she was never before allowed to do. Another reason she might have for writing is just to get the truth out about her past and making her feelings and hardships known. She was always told she was wrong or lying by her stepmother, so there must be an emotional satisfaction for Adeline that many people know what she went through. Above all, Adeline probably wants anyone who may be going through a hard time to understand that there are lessons to be learned from every part of life and that you can control your future despite what other people may think or do.
To help her get through her trials, Adeline had a very important person setting an example of determination and love. Aunt Baba, through Adeline's entire life, was her comforter and encouragement. Niang continually mistreated Aunt Baba in spite of her seniority. Despite such opposition, she never returned any of the negativity offered her by Niang. This example of loving generosity and independence was truly Adeline's inspiration for following her dreams. Aunt Baba was the only person...
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