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Just like when I read Wild Swans byt Jung Chang, there were times when my eyes almost crossed when she is writing of politics and military maneuvers. However, I felt that anyone interested in 20th Century China should read both. There has been some controversy about the accuracy of some of the information, but overall, from what I have read, there is some new information that has been verified (Russia's involvement in Chinese politics during the civil war, for example).

Sometimes, I think Jung Chang's personal involvement colors her commentary. There are times when she states that Mao is a monster or cold-hearted--editorial and personal commentary that is not only unnecessary but distracting. Anyone who can tackle this hefty book is quite capable of drawing these conclusions on their own and not having it hammered into their skulls.

Still, I found it a riveting though not easy book to read. Not easy because of it's length and complicated explanations of political intrigues and military machinations but also because of the cold-hearted way in which Mao ruled--and nearly ruined--China. But it is a good book for anyone who wants to understand recent Chinese history.