Big Sister, Little Sister, Red Sister Summary
Big Sister, Little Sister, Red Sister is a fascinating audiobook written by Jung Chang. The book tells the story of three remarkable women who were sisters and played a pivotal role in the history of China during the 20th century. The audiobook was published in 2019 and is narrated by the author herself.
The three sisters, Big Sister, Little Sister, and Red Sister, were born in the late 19th century in a wealthy and powerful family in China. They witnessed the decline of the Qing Dynasty and the rise of the Republic of China. They also lived through the Japanese invasion of China, the Chinese Civil War, and the establishment of the People's Republic of China. The sisters had a close relationship with the most prominent figures of their time, including Sun Yat-sen, Chiang Kai-shek, Mao Zedong, and Zhou Enlai.
The book provides a detailed account of the sisters' lives and their role in shaping the history of China. Big Sister, Soong Ai-ling, was a businesswoman who played a crucial role in financing the Nationalist Party during the Chinese Civil War. Little Sister, Soong May-ling, was the wife of Chiang Kai-shek, the leader of the Nationalist Party. She was a charismatic and influential figure who was known for her efforts to improve the status of women in China. Red Sister, Soong Ching-ling, was a revolutionary who was married to Sun Yat-sen, the founder of the Republic of China. She played a critical role in the establishment of the People's Republic of China.
One of the most impressive aspects of the audiobook is the way the author weaves together the personal stories of the three sisters with the political and social events of the time. Jung Chang provides a detailed and nuanced analysis of the complex relationships between the sisters and the men in their lives. She also offers insights into the cultural and societal norms of China during the 20th century.
The audiobook is a compelling and engaging listen, thanks in large part to the author's narration. Jung Chang's voice is clear and expressive, and she brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her narration. Her personal connection to the story also shines through, adding an extra layer of depth and emotion to the audiobook.
Overall, Big Sister, Little Sister, Red Sister is an outstanding audiobook that provides a unique and insightful perspective on the history of China. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the political, social, and cultural developments of China during the 20th century.