Peking Story : The First 2 Years under the Red Star

School Library Journal

YA Peking from 1946 to 1950 becomes a remarkable experience when viewed through the eyes of a young exchange student. Kidd arrived there just after his graduation from college and 2 months before his 20th birthday. There are fascinating descriptions of an ancient society on the verge of ending and the drastic changes that the communists bring when they take over the government. Kidd's position was unique. In his four years in Peking he taught English at a local university, became a part of the European circle of people who had settled in Peking, and married a spirited daughter of a high Chinese official. His stories about his wife's family are particularly touching and revealing because they went from positions of high esteem and privilege to having to learn to survive under the communists. Their palatial ancestral home had to be sold, and Elder Sister was given the ignoble task of house mother in a closed brothel. Increasing restrictions and David's detainment and arrest on two occasions added to the fear and uncertainty of their lives. Today Kidd retains his ties with the Far East. His marriage did not survive, but it is clear that the family retains a relationship with him of respect and affection. The story of their lives is strong and full of human interest. Barbara Weathers, Duchesne Academy, Houston