Chinese Cinderella and the Secret Dragon Society facts for kids
2004 Puffin edition
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| Author | Adeline Yen Mah |
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| Cover artist | Adeline Yen Mah |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Series | Chinese Cinderella Series |
| Genre | Children's novel historical novel |
| Published | 5 Aug 2004 Puffin Books |
| Media type | Print (Paperback) |
| Pages | 280 |
| Preceded by | Chinese Cinderella |
| Followed by | Chinese Cinderella: The Mystery of the Song Dynasty Painting |
Chinese Cinderella and the Secret Dragon Society is an exciting historical novel written by Adeline Yen Mah in 2004. It's a made-up story that continues the adventures from her real-life book for kids, Chinese Cinderella. This book takes you back to China during World War II, where a brave girl named Ye Xian faces many challenges.
Contents
Meet Ye Xian and Her New Life
This story is about a twelve-year-old girl named Ye Xian. She lives in China right in the middle of World War II. Her family treats her badly because they blame her for her mother's death. Even though many years have passed, her father rarely talks to her. His new girlfriend, whom Ye Xian must call "Niang" (Chinese for "mother"), is very unkind. Ye Xian's 'Big Aunt' doesn't like this and tells Ye Xian to call her "Father's New Woman" instead. Ye Xian secretly loves doing this!
A Chance Meeting
One day after school, Ye Xian sees an amazing circus show. Three boys about her age are performing incredible acrobatics. One of the boys, David Black, gives her a business card. Ye Xian takes it and later goes to her Big Aunt's house for an English lesson. But Big Aunt has to leave. Ye Xian feels scared to go home, fearing Niang's unkindness.
A New Home and Friends
After Niang is unkind to her again, Ye Xian finds her courage. She stands up to Niang, which makes her father throw her out of the house. Alone on the dangerous streets, she remembers David's business card. She finds the address, which is a bookshop. There, she meets David and an old woman named Grandma Wu.
Ye Xian tells them about her difficult situation. David and Grandma Wu kindly offer her a place to stay. She is very grateful and accepts. At her new home, she meets Marat and Sam, the other boys from the circus. They are David's friends. The children quickly become close. David even gives Ye Xian a special nickname: CC, short for Chinese Cinderella. He calls her this because her past reminds him of the classic tale of Cinderella.
Joining a Secret Society
CC's new life with the boys and Grandma Wu begins. One day, she sees David showing off his amazing kung fu skills. CC is so impressed that she begs Grandma Wu to teach her. She wants to be just as skilled as David, Marat, and Sam.
The Society of Wandering Knights
Grandma Wu then tells CC about the Society of Wandering Knights. This is a secret group that the boys belong to. Grandma Wu asks CC to join the society in exchange for training. CC eagerly agrees. While all this is happening, she still goes to school as usual. Her father and Niang don't bother her anymore.
A Dangerous Mission Begins
Soon, Marat's brother, Ivanov, sends a letter to the Society of Wandering Knights. Ivanov was sent to fight for China but was captured by the Japanese. Because he speaks many languages, the Japanese are forcing him to work as a translator.
Helping American Soldiers
The Society decides to go on a mission to help American soldiers fighting for China. Grandma Wu's son, Master Wu, joins them. He brings his giant panda named Mei Mei. They travel to Nan Tian Island. There, they help five crew members from an American plane called the Ruptured Duck. The children quickly become friends with the five crew members.
A Surprising Meeting
As they try to return to their boat, the children go into the forest. They meet a lone Japanese soldier who is not much older than they are. At first, the situation is tense. But soon, they become friends. However, he is called back to his plane. The boys and CC then meet back with Grandma Wu and Master Wu. They return to their headquarters. CC is overjoyed to see her Big Aunt there again!
A Sad Ending
Sadly, the Japanese are very angry that the American bombers escaped. They decide to punish the Chinese people on Nan Tian Island. Master Wu returns from the area after taking Mei Mei to Sichuan. He shares the terrible news that Big Aunt and many other Chinese people have been killed. The story ends here, leaving readers wondering what happens next.
