I've read this wonderful book of oral histories, China Witness by Xinran and enjoyed it very much. Xinran spent many years on her research into Chinese history and sought out living (now elderly) witnesses to the historic events that shaped China. Each chapter covers an interview subject, but before the interview text begins, Xinran contextualises the subject's story so the reader understands the significance of the subject's place in that historic moment. Her interview skills are beautifully evident in the transcripts and she gets to the heart of the person. There are so many poignant stories of personal sacrifice as this generation of Chinese people believed it was their duty to build their nation. For many, their relationships with their children suffered as they pursued their "higher cause." This book is one of the best examples of the use of oral history I've read that augments the written history. 5/5
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