Last Boat Out of Shanghai

This book tells the stories of four main characters and their families living in Shanghai during the Japanese invasion of China and the Civil War between the Nationalists and Communists. It captures the tumultuous ups and downs of their lives as they navigate survival amidst upheaval, deprivation, and uncertainty. The story focuses on the difficult decisions they faced about whether to stay in China or leave before the Communist takeover. Their struggles, resilience, courage, and determination shine through as their paths diverge—two characters move to the United States, one to Hong Kong, another to Taiwan, while one remains in China. Eventually, several of them reunite in the United States, bringing their journeys full circle.

This historical fiction, written by a journalist, is grounded in extensive research and in-person interviews. It vividly recounts key historical events and portrays the lives of both the rich and the poor in Shanghai during the early 20th century, up until the Japanese Occupation. The book also delves into the diverse mix of people who made Shanghai a vibrant cultural hub before the war. I found it captivating, with its vivid descriptions of the characters' fears, dreams, and decisions. It not only deepened my understanding of this historical period but also evoked memories of people I knew from Shanghai when I was young. A fascinating, page-turning read.