Library Online: In-Conversation with Andrew Kwong

Join us for an online lunchtime in-conversation with Central Coast local debut author, Andrew Kwong. Hear his moving story of survival, education, fulfillment and freedom.

About the author

Andrew Kwong was born in Zhongshan in the Pearl River Delta, China, and educated in China, Hong Kong and Australia. He works as a family physician on the Central Coast of New South Wales. He has published many short stories and has been the recipient of numerous writing awards and fellowships. His upbringing during the Great Leap Forward was seminal. Those brutal times contrasted with the affection he received from his family and friends, which ultimately shaped his determined and hopeful spirit.

About the book

Andrew Kwong was only seven when he witnessed his first execution. The grim scene left him sleepless, anxious and doubtful about his fervour as a revolutionary in Mao’s New China. Yet he knew if he devoted himself to the Party and its Chairman he would be saved. That’s what his teacher told him.

Months later, it was his own father on trial. This time the sentence was banishment to a re-education camp, not death. It left the family tainted, despised, and with few means of survival during the terrible years of persecution and famine known as the Great Leap Forward. Even after his father returned, things remained desperate. Escape seemed the only solution, and it would be twelve-year-old Andrew who undertook the perilous journey first.

This is the poignant, resonant story of a young boy’s awakening – to survival, education, fulfillment, and eventually to a new life of freedom.

Even though online, bookings are still required. An email will be sent out to attendees 48 hours before the event with details on how to join via Microsoft Teams. Make sure to also check your junk/spam folder and if you don't receive an email 48 hours prior (or if you book within two hours of the event starting) please contact us for assistance.

Reserve your virtual seat by clicking the register button, contact 4304 7500 or email [email protected]

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Quick tips for Joining our online events via Microsoft Teams:

Download the Microsoft Teams app on your device (you do not need to sign up in order to participate)Close app completelyGo to settings and allow Teams to use your micClick on Join Microsoft Teams Meeting link sent from the libraryClick ‘Join as guest’ – you do not need to register or sign into a MS Teams account to participate (remember to only use your first name when joining the meeting).

Need help joining us with Microsoft Teams? No worries - we are available to help. Phone any library branch or send an email to [email protected] and we will talk you through it.