For more than a decade, I have harbored my own secrets, trying to forget. Even you.
-- Mei (Prologue)

Importance: This quote introduces multiple aspects of the story that develop as Mei recounts her experience with the Chairman. The reader learns that Mei has survived past events that she is now recalling. The reader also is introduced to "you," although it is not made apparent who this is. Additionally, this quote informs the reader that the events have traumatized Mei, since she has tried to forget them.

The people’s republic had been born the same year as me, and we were both still testing our limits…as we figured out who we would grow up to be.
-- Mei (chapter 1)

Importance: This quote establishes Mei's age around 16, since the story proper begins in 1965. This also introduces the reader to the fact the People's Republic of China is still in a state of flux as the Chairman's reign...