Zheng Yi Sao was born into poverty in China in the late eighteenth century. But after pirates kidnapped her, she made a deal with her kidnappers that led to her becoming the most powerful pirate in history. A story of strength and courage, this biography chronicles the life of a remarkable historical figure, providing insight into the historical and geographical contexts experienced by many in China during this period. Appropriate for an intermediate-level audience, this story is told in lyrical prose and is accompanied by rich illustrations. In the classroom, it may complement a study of the biography genre and of fiction and nonfiction texts, and it may springboard into research about ancient civilizations.