9 year-old Ling lives in Wuhan, China with her loving parents who are both doctors. Her life becomes a nightmare after Comrade Li, a political officer for Mao, moves into the building and begins the Cultural Revolution in earnest. Soon, Ling is living in constant fear that her father and mother will be sent to a work camp or worse. She witnesses beloved neighbors and friends being beaten or sent away never to be seen again. Ling and her parents do not know who to trust or turn to for help as there are spies everywhere. The atrocities only worsen after her father is labeled an enemy of the state. Although Ling suffers for four years under Comrade Li, she continues to develop, learn and stay true to her beliefs. "Revolution is Not a Dinner Party" is a story of hope, family, and survival. It is based on true events in the author's life and is an effortless and enlightening read.