Reviews

Books

The Red Thread

Australian writer Nicholas Jose impresses one with his scholarly air and this is reflected in his novel The Red Thread (Hong Xian), the Chinese version of which was published recently. The former cultural councilor with the Australian Embassy in Beijing has realized a dream with this unique novel that continues a Chinese literary legacy.

Six Chapters of a Floating Life (Fu Sheng Liu Ji) by Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) scholar Shen Fu has fascinated readers with its intricate details of a couple's daily life and their sad fate. But two chapters have never been found.

In 1935, Chinese scholar Lin Yutang translated the novel into English, which inspired Jose to read more about Chinese literature.

Jose tries to reverse the tragic ending by reincarnating the couple in modern day Shanghai - the man as an upright antiques connoisseur, the lady as a frail Australian artist. Surrounded by a profit-driven boss, real estate developers and ruthless antique dealers, the couple pin their hopes of getting out of trouble on an ambitious young singer.

Jose demonstrates a surprisingly deep understanding of contemporary Chinese life. The author's devotion to Chinese history and literature pays off in the felicitous portrayal of the bustling metropolis and tranquil countryside.

Translators Li Yao and Xun Zhong have done a fair job of turning Jose's delicate writing into fine Chinese. Professor Zhou Qingshu adds a beautiful touch to the classical language in the new chapters.

Liu Jun

As Great As The World

For foreigners preparing to visit China, Canadian writer Lisa Carducci's books offer unique insights honed over 17 years of living in China.

In As Great As The World, Carduccis covers everyday basics such as transportation and housing to cultural aspects such as festivals and etiquette, with interesting anecdotes. Small things like saying "Thank you" constantly could annoy the Chinese. This drives her to ponder on the different mindset of Chinese and Westerners. Her funny encounters with curious locals enliven the exact accounts of facts and figures.

Growing up in an Italian family that emigrated to French-speaking Quebec a century ago, Carducci maintains her own perspective in viewing the Middle Kingdom. She is annoyed that many Chinese think of laowai (foreigners) only as English speakers, and says some foreigners come to China with a superior attitude.

The book, which has been published in eight languages by the China Intercontinental Press, prepares readers for the fast-changing Chinese society, touching upon such topics like the "New-New" Youth, the Olympic spirit and the Internet presence.

Her worries and wishes for China express her deep feelings for the country.

LJ

Have A Date With Havana

Yu Xi, a senior journalist from Wuhan-based Changjiang Daily, recently launched his latest book, Have A Date With Havana, at the Cuban Embassy in Beijing. Published by World Affairs Press, the book is a collection of essays and photos Yu wrote and took during his trip to the country.

It starts with Yu's first meeting with Fidel Castro Ruz and goes on to describe Cuba's multidimensional characters and ethnic folklore. Through his perceptive writing and pictures, Yu makes profound observations of Cuban society.

At the launch, Cuban ambassador Carlos Miguel Pereira Hernandez called Yu a cultural promoter. Yu has held five Cuba-themed exhibitions of fine art and photography in Havana, Beijing and Wuhan.

Cheng Anqi

(China Daily 04/08/2008 page20)