Compestine, Ying Chang. Growing Up Under a Red Flag: A Memoir of Surviving the Chinese Cultural Revolution. Xinmei Liu, Illus. Rocky Pond, 05/2024. 40pp. Picture Book. Trade $19.99. 978-0593533987. GRADES 1–4. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
A young girl’s account of how the Cultural Revolution transformed her life. Striking, full-page, Chinese Socialist Realism-style illustrations are packed with detail. Simple language focuses on the specifics that for ten years made up young Ying’s days: battling lice, competing for rations, trading a favorite dress for a Mao uniform, watching her father be dragged away. Ying learns both what to hide and how to fight. The promise of San Francisco runs through the story; a postcard of the Golden Gate Bridge is the one forbidden item the family manages to hide. A readaloud is sure to prompt discussion. Focusing on the family, no mention is made of school, friends, or other children. Back matter includes an author’s note and two photographs. All characters are Chinese. Includes California-specific content. Review based on an ARC.
Melissa McAvoy—Retired