While the book was interesting from a historical perspective in allowing a personal view of post World War II Hungary under the communists and the ensuing Hungarian Revolution, I didn't find myself sympathizing as much as I should have with the plight of her parents. The emotional distance I felt was probably due to the writing, and I think that Kati Marton, being so integrally a part of the story, was unable to draw me in as an outsider because she was so much an insider. Also, while living under communist rule must have been horrible, her parents were fortunate because of their AP connections with the United States, and seemed able to prosper in spite of their adversity and provide a decent life for their children.