Child of Tibet
Yangchen SonameThe story of a young Tibetan woman's flight to freedom. Soname Yangchen was born in the Tibetan countryside during Chinese occupation. Her parents sent her to Lhasa for her own safety where she became a child slave, exploited and deprived of affection. At 16 Soname risked death in a freedom trek across the Himalayas but even after managing to escape, she faced further dangers and heartache in India, being forced by destitution to give up her daughter. Soname later met and married an Englishman and went to live in England where her talent for singing was discovered.
Comments from Groups
Most people enjoyed more than they thought they would. Christchurch 305Everyone thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and the insight it provided into Tibetan culture. It provided a rich background for group discussion across many fronts eg: mother/daughter relationships, facing adversity, cultural differences, Buddhism, religious `freedom` in another country, sky burials and western consumerism. Wanaka 010Everyone enjoyed the autobiography-amazing courage and human spirit. Christchurch 309Very interesting description of life in Tibet contrasting with life in New Zealand-how would we cope in Saname's place-far many of us enjoy our life in the West and can see why Saname didn't want to return to India/Tibet to live. Auckland 055We really enjoyed this book. so interesting to read about such a different life. Ashburton 023Easy to read memoir. Amazing story showing strength of spirit.Learnt lots about Buddhism, Tibet, etc. Tauranga 032
Pages
184
184
Year
2006
2006
Reviews
06-11-2023
All of the group appreciated the book and the life story it told, particularly the hardships of this woman and her enduring adherence to Buddhism, which seemed to underline her acceptance of her situation. The ghost writer, we felt, did not speak in Soname's voice and it felt a little staged. We were also intrigued by her relationship with so many men, who appeared so generous to her. Was this providing a home and keep as innocent as it sounded!
24-09-2021
Everyone enjoyed this book. A compelling story.
04-11-2019
Simplistic writing style. Amazing story.
17-10-2018
We all enjoyed this book and had a lively discussion re Tibet, Nepal, China and Russia - far reaching and ranging!
17-10-2018
There are a lot of books of this general type around at the moment - women struggling against poverty, deprivation, religious restrictions etc. We all felt that this was one of the best we have read, perhaps because it was well-written (not always the case), and because it was deeply compelling in terms of the survival story that underpins it...
15-10-2018
The group was divided in opinion about this book, although the majority enjoyed it and were in awe of Soname's courage.
15-10-2018
We enjoyed the book mostly. It sparked discussion about the invasion and occupation of Tibet, and raised awareness of slavery and pure survival.
15-10-2018
We really enjoyed this book. It gave a good insight into the history of Tibet - also the effects of China's 'invasion'; the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan culture.
15-10-2018
Great discussion. Huge admiration for the resilience of Soname. All thoroughly enjoyed the book.
20-12-2017
A story of determination and courage.