An awe-inspiring, often hilarious, and unerringly honest story of one mother's exercise in extreme parenting, revealing the rewards-and the costs-of raising her children the Chinese way. 

All decent parents want to do what's best for their children. What Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother reveals is that the Chinese just have a totally different idea of how to do that. Western parents try to respect their children's individuality, encouraging them to pursue their true passions and providing a nurturing environment. The Chinese believe that the best way to protect your children is by preparing them for the future and arming them with skills, strong work habits, and inner confidence. Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother chronicles Chua's iron-willed decision to raise her daughters, Sophia and Lulu, her way-the Chinese way-and the remarkable results her choice inspires. 

Here are some things Amy Chua would never allow her daughters to do: 

ΓΓé¼ó have a playdate 

ΓΓé¼ó be in a school play 

ΓΓé¼ó complain about not being in a school play 

ΓΓé¼ó not be the #1 student in every subject except gym and drama 

ΓΓé¼ó play any instrument other than the piano or violin 

ΓΓé¼ó not play the piano or violin