BOOK BRIEF

Last Boat Out of Shanghai: The Epic Story of the Chinese Who Fled Mao's Revolution

Helen Zia
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Last Boat Out of Shanghai: The Epic Story of the Chinese Who Fled Mao's Revolution

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2019

Book Brief

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Helen Zia

Last Boat Out of Shanghai: The Epic Story of the Chinese Who Fled Mao's Revolution

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

503

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Shanghai • 1940s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Last Boat Out of Shanghai by Helen Zia recounts the experiences of four individuals fleeing Shanghai during the Communist Revolution in the late 1940s. The narrative highlights their struggles and resilience as they navigate a chaotic and uncertain period in history, seeking safety and new beginnings amidst the changing political landscape.

Mysterious

Melancholic

Contemplative

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.5

6,876 ratings

92%

Loved it

7%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Helen Zia’s Last Boat Out of Shanghai delivers a compelling narrative about the lives of refugees fleeing communist China, blending personal stories with historical context. Critics praise its detailed research and emotional depth. However, some find the structure occasionally fragmented. Overall, it’s a poignant and informative read on a significant historical subject.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Last Boat Out of Shanghai: The Epic Story of the Chinese Who Fled Mao's Revolution?

Readers who enjoy Last Boat Out of Shanghai by Helen Zia are typically history enthusiasts intrigued by personal narratives and diaspora studies, similar to those who appreciate Wild Swans by Jung Chang or The Rape of Nanking by Iris Chang for their detailed recounting of complex historical events through deeply personal stories.

4.5

6,876 ratings

92%

Loved it

7%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

503

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Shanghai • 1940s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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