A review by blearywitch
Red Azalea by Anchee Min

3.0

I wouldn't categorize subjecting oneself to communist beliefs and ways of life a hardship. It is a hard life but one made by choice. The great story would have been the hard life endured due to retaliation. She had the chance to opt for standing up for her teacher and telling the truth. Having once been a child, I know firsthand that no adult could bend my will - I have endured harsh words and whippings for sticking to my ideas and opinions. I was not impressed with her weakness and her succumbing to pressure. Throughout her backbreaking life in the fields serving the cause, I found it hard to feel sorry for her. I admired Yan & her spunk at getting the heat on under the covers in a room full of danger. At the same time I'm amazed that no one suspected or heard anything, all those nights!
It was interesting to experience the life of a Communist through her story but I was a tad disappointed with her.