China's Son

Feeling his fate is hopeless, Da responds by dropping out. Da’s life takes a dark turn, and he soon begins hanging out with a gang. However, all is not lost. After Chairman Mao’s death, Da realizes that an education and college might be possible. He begins to study–all day and into the night. His entire family rallies to help him succeed, working long hours in the rice fields and going into debt to ensure that Da has an education. Their struggle would not be in vain. When the final exam results are posted, Da has one of the highest scores in the region, earning him a place at the prestigious Beijing University and a future free from the scars of his past. This inspiring memoir, adapted for young readers from Colors of the Mountain, is one that will rally readers to defy the odds. Praise for China’s Son “Humor and unflinching honesty inform the narrative, which is shot through with lyrical descriptions.”—Publishers Weekly “Da Chen’s narrative moves smoothly, communicating setting and character with an immediacy that will draw young readers in.”—Kirkus Reviews