Soong Mayling, or Madame Chiang Kai-shek, was one of the most influential and controversial women of the twentieth century and Esther T. Hu's careful study of her wartime activities is sure to further elevate her stature. This history recovers Mayling's eloquence and passion in rallying the Chinese people, especially its women, to resist Japanese aggression. It is no wonder that millions of Americans came to understand China's global mission through its first lady.

Gordon H. Chang, Stanford University, USA

In most English-language historical writing on wartime China, Soong Mayling appears as an interesting footnote, rather than a central figure. Esther Hu's book provides a new perspective, revealing Soong Mayling's important contributions as an orator, writer, and organizer who worked tirelessly to rally the Chinese people during a national crisis.

Peter Worthing, Texas Christian University, USA

This compelling and meticulously researched study delves into the many dimensions of Soong Mayling's contributions to wartime China from 1937 to 1945. Drawing on archival records, newly released sources, and contemporary scholarship, it brings Soong Mayling vividly to life with clear and engaging prose. A must-read for scholars and students of WWII history and modern China, as well as for general readers captivated by the legacy of Soong Mayling and the complex era of wartime China.

Peter Chen-Main Wang, Fu-jen Catholic University, Taiwan

Soong Mayling was the most influential woman of the Second World War, not just in China but anywhere. In Soong Mayling and Wartime China, 1937-1945 Esther Hu uses Soong Mayling's radio addresses, public speeches, and letters as well as archival documents from around the world to illuminate her contributions to the war effort. Soong Mayling headed the Chinese air force, mobilized China's women for the war effort, looked after the many thousands of orphans, and shaped allied relations and strategy by participating as an interpreter and interlocutor in meetings of her husband, president Chiang Kaishek, with other allied leaders. Hu insightfully compares Soong Mayling to Churchill, who through his persona and speeches mobilized Britain as Soong Mayling did China. This is the most detailed and by far the fairest account of a life that should be far better remembered.

Hans van de Ven, University of Cambridge, UK