In 1948, when Mao’s army pushes back Chen kia Shek’s Nationalists’ fighters, life becomes increasingly dangerous for rich landowners like the Angs. At a family meeting, the grandmother ruthlessly decides they should all escape except her son’s wife and daughters since his wife has not produced a son. They leave for Qingdao, taking everything of value. When communist cadres arrive on their doorstep, the mother and the three daughters left behind are kicked out of their house and soon their long and treacherous journey begins.

This is a compelling story from the first page about a mother, timid and docile under her husband’s family and Chinese traditions who becomes resourceful and determined to ensure her girls have a safe and better life. With themes of injustice, patriarchy, and resilience at its core, it’s a book I found hard to put down.

• Other Asian 5 out of 5s