Thousand Pieces of Gold - by Ruthanne Lum McCunn Paperback

Book Synopsis

The extraordinary biographical novel about a Chinese-American woman who fought for independence and dignity in the American West--"an important contribution to the history of pioneer women" (Ms. Magazine)

Lalu Nathoy's father called his thirteen-year-old daughter his treasure, his "thousand pieces of gold"--yet when famine strikes northern China in 1871, he is forced to sell her. Polly, as Lalu is later called, is sold to a brothel, sold again to a slave merchant bound for America, auctioned to a saloonkeeper, and offered as a prize in a poker game.

With over a quarter of a million copies sold, Thousand Pieces of Gold is a classic of biographical historical fiction that stars an unforgettable Chinese-American heroine whose struggles put a human face on the anti-immigration policies of the past and present.

Review Quotes

"A story of struggle and survival as a woman-and slave-in China and the American West . . . Fast-paced and entertaining-packed with adventure, drama, and inspiration."
--Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston, San Francisco Chronicle

"From Shanghai to San Francisco, Lalu Nathoy's courageous journey is an important contribution to the history of pioneer women."
--Ms. Magazine

"This biographical novel has plenty of suspense and a strong story line. Reading it is a liberal education in one phase of pioneer life in the West."
--Lucille McDonald, Seattle Times

"A valuable book that gives Chinese Americans another true heroine."
--Maxine Hong Kingston

"Ruthanne Lum McCunn has woven an enthralling work of fiction from the true-life story of Lalu Nathoy."
--Elena Brunet, Los Angeles Times

About the Author

Ruthanne Lum McCunn writes about the Chinese on both sides of the Pacific. Her award-winning books include The Moon Pearl and, most recently, Chinese Yankee. McCunn's work has been translated into thirteen languages, published in twenty-two countries, and adapted for stage and screen. She lives in San Francisco.