REBELS OF THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM

Wang Lee is enslaved by bandits at 15 and grows into manhood as a soldier in the Heavenly Army during the nineteenth-century Taiping Rebellion in China. Narrator Guidall evocatively portrays Paterson's major characters and skillfully captures a culture at war. During this long story, Guidall gives unfailing attention to plot. His sympathetic characterizations of Wang Lee and fellow soldier Mei Lin illuminate nineteenth-century Chinese culture and reveal themes of justice, love, duty, loyalty and faith. Older teens and adults who can appreciate the story's historical perspective and intricate themes will enjoy this epic tale. R.M. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN 96]