The Dragon's Pearl

The Dragon's Pearl (Growing up among China's elite) by Sirin Phathanothai

Thanks to Pam who kindly lent me her precious book. 

A true story about two Thai children growing up in China from 1950s to 1970s.   8-year-old Sirin and 12-year-old Wai, children of a prominent Thai politician, were sent by their father and Thailand's Prime Minister Pibul to be brought up in Beijing under the direct auspices of Premier Zhou Enlai as his wards.   The children’s father believed in the potential of China and hoped the mission will help establish ties with China which was then pretty much a closed country with few foreign ties.  It was also a secret mission as Thailand was courting both United States and China at the same time.

The book offers a rare glimpse into the private lives of Mao Zedong, Zhou and Liao Chengzhi.  Zhou welcomed the idea as he believed the children will learn the way of the Chinese and in future served as important political bridges between China and Thailand. 

Sirin and Wai who used to live in luxuries and privileges in Thailand, found themselves living in hardship especially during the Cultural Revolution.  Wai was expelled from China and Sirin was forced to denounce her father.  After the Revolution, the siblings did move on to serve both countries well when China opened up to the world. 

This book also offers a glimpse into private lives of politician.  How politician remains loyal to his cause despite repeated jail sentences. How elderly politician met foreign delegates at 2am and remained energetic and alert.  

The story was well written, easy to read and captivating too. After reading the book, I truly adore Zhou - the far sighted, highly spirited and caring leader!