Forbidden City

Forbidden City by William Bell, published by Random House Children’s Books on January 10, 1996, is a young adult fiction novel that spans 208 pages. The story follows seventeen-year-old Alex Jackson, who unexpectedly accompanies his father, a CBC news cameraman, to Beijing. Once in the city, Alex finds himself amidst the turmoil of Tian An Men Square, where students are fighting against the Chinese army for their freedom. Separated from his father and carrying illegal videotapes, Alex must navigate this dangerous environment and rely on the students for his escape.

Readers will encounter a narrative closely based on eyewitness accounts of the events surrounding the massacre in Beijing. The book delves into themes of social struggle and violence, providing a poignant look at a pivotal moment in history. As Alex’s journey unfolds, the story captures the urgency and desperation of the students’ fight for freedom, offering insights into the complexities of the situation in Asia during this tumultuous period.