Forbidden City by Vanessa Hua, Read by Catherine Ho
Historical Fiction Set During China’s Cultural Revolution
Every Monday through Friday, AudioFile’s editors recommend the best in audiobook listening. We keep our daily episodes short and sweet, with audiobook clips to give you a sample of our featured listens.
Narrator Catherine Ho immediately captivates in Vanessa Hua’s original and intriguing story. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Sandi Henschel discuss this historical fiction audiobook set during China’s Cultural Revolution about teenager Mei Xiang, who becomes Chairman Mao Zedong’s lover. Ho’s voice bristles with energy as Mei, who is happy to leave her dull farm life behind when she’s selected as part of a dance troupe bound for the capital. Because of her revolutionary zeal, Mei attracts the Chairman’s attention. Ho’s descriptions from Mei’s point of view reflect her growing awareness of the politics of the period. Her stellar performance adds to this thoroughly enjoyable historical fiction.
To listen to the whole archive of Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine, subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, or wherever else you find your favorite podcasts.
Support for AudioFile’s Behind the Mic comes from PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE AUDIO, dedicated to producing top-quality fiction and nonfiction audiobooks written and read by the best in the business. Visit penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/audiofile now to start listening.
