Tuen, Slave and Empress

"Tuen, Slave and Empress" by Kathleen Gray Nelson is a tale of transformation set against the backdrop of a tumultuous China. The narrative follows Tuen, a girl who begins her life as property but is destined to occupy the highest position in the land. The story begins with her family amidst the devastation of the Tai-ping rebellion, highlighting their struggle for existence, and the contrast between their situation and Tuen's potential. Themes of perseverance, societal roles, and historical context are explored through its vivid descriptions of a society rocked by conflict, where Tuen's journey from enslaved person to imperial ruler showcases themes of resilience and unexpected ascensions.