A fascinating read, but too factually written to warrant a higher rating from me. What was a really harrowing tale in parts lacked much emotion making it difficult to empathise with the women. I described it to a friend as very Germanic (it was translated from German which possibly didn't help). I recommend it if you're interested in 20th century Chinese/Tibetan history and culture, but Wild Swans, it is not. The actual story told in this book is amazing. The courage, strength and resolve the women in this story had to not only escape Tibet during the cultural revolution, but also survive their years in India after escaping, is astonishing. In addition to the story of Kunsang and Sonam, I also enjoyed learning about Tibetan culture and Buddhist customs described in this book. Old Tibet wasn't the loving Utopia I had always thought it to be, I do appreciate that the author gave a very realistic view of Tibet from her grandmother's stories. The story telling and style of writing in this book left a lot to be desired. There was very little emotion, though the author was telling the story of her immediate family members, the writing was very choppy and at some points confusing, and and times the author came off as haughty. I don't know if these shortfalls are due to the book's translation, but I didn't care much for the actual delivery of the story. Overall I would recommend this book for an excellent depiction of Tibet's cultural revolution from the Tibetan point of view.
What do You think about Sneeuwland (2010)?
A Goodreads First Reads win! Looking forward to a new book in my mailbox soon!
—Alexandra
From the very start of this book I was drawn into the lives of this family.
—Madonkadonk
Certainly a must read if you are interested in such subjects !!!
—babby
