Daughter of China
by C. Hope Flinchbaugh
Bethany House Publishers, 2002
Reviewed by Paula Innes

Pastor Wong, who is with Mei Lin when visiting an orphanage, talks about real freedom, “Just remember that communism, socialism, democracy-none of them can change a person’s heart. Only Jesus can do that. Whatever government we find ourselves under, living for Jesus is the only freedom.” (page 253)

The discrimination, the beatings and the ridicule that Mei Lin, the main character in “Daughter of China,” endured, should not happen to anyone, but they did. One might think this story, is historical, however, it is present day and horribly real. Christians are very much persecuted for their faith, today - yes, 21st century persecution.

Not only does Flinchbaugh tackle persecution of Christians in China, but she also addresses the one-child policy and orphanage conditions. She paints with good descriptive word pictures, but some “scenes” are grim and graphic. The story moves rather quickly and takes Mei Lin, as well as the reader, on some unusual turns.

Mei Lin’s faith prompts the reader to question their own heart, putting them in her shoes and examining if they would respond similarly if asked about their belief in Jesus.