57 pages • 1 hour read
Liang Heng, Judith ShapiroSon of the Revolution
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1983A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Son of the Revolution by Liang Heng and Judith Shapiro recounts Liang’s journey growing up amid the Cultural Revolution in China, addressing the significant political and cultural turmoil that ensued following the Communist Party's rise to power. Liang’s family faces persecution due to political accusations, and he navigates complex relationships and societal pressures while staying loyal to Party ideals before pursuing higher education and an international future.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Son of the Revolution by Liang Heng and Judith Shapiro offers an intense, personal account of growing up during China's Cultural Revolution. Readers commend its raw honesty and evocative storytelling. Critics note that while it provides valuable historical insight, the narrative can sometimes feel one-sided and lacks broader context. Overall, it's praised for its emotional impact and vivid details.
Who Should Read Son of the Revolution?
Readers interested in memoirs about personal resilience amidst political turmoil would enjoy Son of the Revolution by Liang Heng and Judith Shapiro. Comparable to Wild Swans by Jung Chang and The Diary of Anne Frank, it appeals to those intrigued by firsthand accounts of historical events and cultural revolutions.