| The Life and Times of Soong Ching Ling: an Evidence-based Approach
By SHEN HAIPING
Title: The Legendary Life of
Soong Ching Ling
Author: He Dazhang
346 pages, paperback
RMB 46 (Chinese edition)
Published by the People's Literature Publishing House in December 2011
PUT simply, China would not be the same today if Soong Ching Ling, also known as Mme. Sun Yat-sen, had not played such an instrumental role in its founding and development.
As a research-intensive historical narrative, The Legendary Life of Soong Ching Ling presents gripping narratives on the life of this outstanding Chinese dignitary through primary source evidence and firsthand accounts. Although a large amount of information is conveyed, the book remains accessible and is unquestionably a good read.
The author, He Dazhang, is a highly respected scholar of history. In 1997 he became director of the Former Residence of Soong Ching Ling in Beijing, and worked there until his retirement last year. During his time as director he devoted himself to collecting historical materials and extensive research into Mme. Soong's life. His post afforded him unique access to Soong Ching Ling's residence and the opportunity to interview her relatives and friends from all over the world. In recognition of He Dazhang's expertise, he has been invited to give lectures on Sun Yat-sen and Soong Ching Ling at colleges and universities nationwide. This book is a testament to his 14 years of research into the lives of these unique individuals.
His ability to present in an engaging manner the stories behind many items left in place at the residence after Soong Ching Ling passed away is particularly impressive.
The book consists of 45 chapters and is brimming with rare pictures. It examines relationships among the people in Soong Ching Ling's life and items from her former residence, so casting new light on this extraordinary woman. The stories are rich in content and cover a wide swathe of her life and work. Moreover, much of the research and many of the photos are published here for the first time. The book thus has great historical value and is certain to be well received by scholars and ordinary readers alike.
The book begins with Soong Ching Ling's application for a passport to study in the U.S. Subsequent chapters examine her career from various perspectives, including her role in various historical periods and major events, her attitudes and opinions towards political events, and other contributions to public life in New China.
The book provides unique insights into her home life. Content presented for the first time includes details of her wardrobe, pets, art and literary collections and even her cooking prowess. These diverse accounts make readers feel personally acquainted with Soong's family, marriage, friendships and career.
While many books have been written about Soong's public life, the value of this book lies in its giving an intimate glance into the mind of a truly revolutionary figure. Such accounts are rare in history, not just in China.
The book also touches on sensitive topics, again a first for publications about Soong. They include her experiences and thoughts during the "cultural revolution" (1966-1976) and her friendship with national leaders, in particular her relationship with Deng Xiaoping, chief architect of China's reform and opening-up drive.
Some often-misrepresented topics have finally been put to rights in this book through candid and detailed accounts of her marriage to Sun Yat-sen and her parents' attitude toward the marriage.
In a world of pop literature, credibility is the most prominent feature of The Legendary Life of Soong Ching Ling. The author has a distinguished academic background, and historical documentary evidence substantiates every claim. The book's conclusions are therefore objective and authoritative.
This book is a recommended read not just for history buffs, but for anyone with an interest in China. Soong Ching Ling has long been a highly respected figure in modern Chinese history and an inspiration to women everywhere. Nevertheless, episodes in her life have been disputed, and it is high time for the truth to emerge in an objective, thorough account. The Legendary Life of Soong Ching Ling is just such a book.
SHEN HAIPING is director of the General Office of the China Welfare Institute. | 
