Mao Zedong Rising: Semi-True Tales By S.E. Bourne

If you enjoy a good non-fiction novel, Mao Zedong Rising: Semi-True Tales may be exactly what you are looking for. This short, 40-page book follows the real-life tales of the author’s life and upbringing. S.E Bourne (the author) compares her story to that of Mao Zedong, the late Chinese politician and revolutionary who played a prominent role in his country’s history.

Spoiler-Free Summary

Before the reader even gets into the first chapter of this expertly written book, the author captures their attention with a harrowing preface that prepares them for what is to come. Having drawn inspiration from renowned writers, such as George Orwell and Margaret Weis, Bourne plays around with elements of symbolism and narrative poetry.

The first short story, entitled Raised Wild, gives us a better idea of who the narrator is and where her story starts. You can tell that her upbringing was not one of luxury or ease and that she had a turbulent relationship with her family.

Each chapter describes a prominent moment in her life. For example, she goes into detail when discussing the time she sat at her mother’s bedside, watching her slowly die. The style of writing is so moving and personal that it almost feels as if it is a diary entry that shouldn’t be available for our viewing.

In each chapter, there is some form of lesson for the reader to take away. During the last few moments spent with her mother, Bourne realizes that she has spent so much of her life focussing on the negatives instead of the positives. However, while walking with her mother through the gardens of her childhood home, she finally finds peace in their relationship.

One of the most problematic relationships that Bourne always comes back to is that of her and her father. Throughout her stories, the effects of his mental abuse are evident and play a role in just about every chapter. Bourne even describes the times that she used self-harm as a way to cope with her emotional trauma.

There are also a few more positive tales that are shared with us in the book. In the last chapter, Bourne describes how she finds her therapy in writing, and you can tell that she has started to prioritize her mental health. 

My Takeaway on Mao Zedong Rising

S.E Bourne has a very distinctive and memorable style of writing. Many would describe Mao Zedong Rising as a book of poetry instead of story-telling, but there is definitely an element of both, which is well-appreciated.

The 10 short stories included in the novel describe tales of the author’s childhood, prominent figures that played a role in her life, and her development through adulthood. The author will walk you through themes of the natural world, dreamscapes, and aging.

As you can probably tell, Mao Zedong Rising has a very heavy undertone that is better suited to more mature readers. There are elements of suicide, self-harm, death, and depression, which some may find a bit too intense or triggering.

With that being said, if you enjoy narrative poetry and fancy yourself a literature enthusiast, this book may be precisely what you are looking for. Even though the stories are based on true events, you will find yourself captivated by the author’s expert story-telling abilities. It almost feels as if you are reading a drama novel, as each chapter entails some sort of life-changing event. It is also a quick read and doesn’t drag on unnecessarily.

Audience

Young adults and adults who enjoy autobiographical, introspective, poetry-styled literature.

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