'Losing a child is like having an elephant on your back. A burden so great you don't think you will be able to bear it.' In 1994 Frances McKay's world was tipped upside down with the accidental death of her daughter Helen. Three years later, Frances signed up to teach conversational English to students in China. And so began her ten year tumultuous love affair with China. In China she found difficulties, frustration, hilarity, friendship, and was touched by the kindness of strangers. Ultimately, Frances realised 'the elephant' had become smaller. That over time, healing happens. Pieces of China is a tribute to China, to life, to living and to a daughter named Helen.