NIGHT IN SHANGHAI

This audiobook explores little known stories that took place between the Wars, including that of an African-American pianist who played in Chinese clubs in the 1930s. Narrator Emily Woo Zeller is an excellent choice to portray star-crossed lovers thrown together by history. Her warm tones illuminate the daily lives of protagonists Thomas Greene and indentured servant Song Yuhua. The text balances vivid historical details with the emotional truths of two people who are outcasts in their respective societies. Zeller capably handles the Chinese words that appear throughout Song Yuhua's chapters, giving authenticity to the narration. M.R. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2014]