1. FALLING LEAVES: A Memoir of an Unwanted Chinese Daughter
By Adeline Yen May

2. Adeline Yen Mah
Born in Tianin, China in 1937 (November 30th???)
Mother dies of complications from childbirth

3. Adeline Yen Mah (Continued)
Study in England, received a medical degree, and currently lives in California
Writes memoirs of true childhood as an "unwanted" daughter

4. CHINA 1912: Emperor died and Manchu dynasty began
CHINA 1912: Emperor died and Manchu dynasty began. Some traditions are thorwn out - move toward more modern lifestyle begins : the Chinese Communist party forms.  Japan occupies most of China during WWI     

5. CHINA Late 1940's: Nationalists are driven out; the Communists hold most power.  Mao, the communist leaster brings advancements to China (economy, etc) but also threatens all those who disagree with him     

6. CHINA 1979: Mao dies; fear for one's life dissipates, but China remains communist.    

7. Family Structure…. Strong desire for male sons
Family Structure… * Strong desire for male sons. * Women unlikely to inherit, seen as financial burdens, etc. * Man may remarry; women cannot.   * If wife (big) does not provide sons, concubines used (little wives)

8. Ideal females are. Quiet / submissive. Dainty (note: foot bindings)
Ideal females are... * Quiet / submissive * Dainty (note: foot bindings) * Reflections of Western beauty (light skin, hair, eyes, etc.)

11. Literary Term IDIOM Common expression; means something other than literal meaning of individual words ex: He worked his tail off.