A Chinese proverb says, "Falling leaves return to their roots." In Chinese Cinderella, Adeline Yen Mah returns to her roots to tell the story of her painful childhood and her ultimate triumph and courage in the face of despair. Adeline's affluent, powerful family considers her bad luck after her mother dies giving birth to her. Life does not get any easier when her father remarries. She and her siblings are subjected to the disdain of her stepmother, while her stepbrother and stepsister are spoiled. Although Adeline wins prizes at school, they are not enough to compensate for what she really yearns for -- the love and understanding of her family.

Originally published in hardcover in 1999 by Delacorte Press. Includes a preview of the author's Along the river.

Top of the class -- A Tianjin family -- Nai Nai's bound feet -- Life in Tianjin -- Arrival in Shanghai -- First day at school -- Family reunion -- Tram fare -- Chinese New Year -- Shanghai school days -- PLT -- Big Sister's wedding -- A birthday party -- Class president -- Boarding school in Tianjin -- Hong Kong -- Boarding school in Hong Kong -- Miserable Sunday -- End of term -- Pneumonia -- Playwriting competition -- Letter from Aunt Baba.