Book Recommendation #11

Wo zhe yi bei zi / LAO She
Call number: PL2804.C5 L36 2015a CN

This book is a novel by Lao She. The novel narrates the tragic life of a patrolman in the old era using a first-person perspective. Through the experiences and ideological changes of the protagonist, the novel portrays the helplessness of those at the bottom of society in shaping their destinies. Simultaneously, it exposes the decay and darkness of the old-time society. Through seemingly witty language, Lao She enables readers to taste the heaviness of life and gain insights and inspirations for life reflections.

Chuan guo yun ceng de qing lang / CHI Zijian
Call number: PL2847.T98 C45 2013 CN

The novel vividly narrates the story of a big yellow dog in the first person. Through a narrative in reverse chronological order, the author depicts the emotional entanglements between the dog and its six previous and subsequent owners, while showing the local customs and culture of Jingding Town in Northeast China from the perspective of the dog. The novel seamlessly blends reverence for nature with profound reflections on life, guiding readers to explore the meaning and beauty of life.

Yi di ji mao / LIU Zhenyu
Call number: PL2879.C376 L58 2011a CN

This novel has seven sections, telling the leading character Xiao Lin's daily trivialities in his family and suffering in the workplace, reflecting the daily life and living states of ordinary Chinese people in the 1980s and 1990s. This book is a representative work of the new realistic fiction books. It truly and vividly reflects the main theme of most Chinese people's lives through daily trivialities, and profoundly reflects the impact of reform and opening up on people's inner and outer changes. Additionally, the book mentions that the meaning of life lies in hope and ideals.  It is hoped that through this book, everyone can remember their original aspirations, live out their own lives, and strive for the future in ordinary life.

Lost Horizon / James Hilton
Call number: PR6015.I53 H55 2013 CN

The book is an exhilarating and fantastical novel, recounting the miraculous journey of four Western travelers who unexpectedly find themselves in Shangri-La. Through vivid descriptions of the scenery and culture of Shangri-La, the author turns this mystical place into a distant land that captivates the souls of all travelers. If you yearn to experience the wonders and beauty of nature and seek to uncover the secrets of longevity, you may find answers through this book and discover your own Shangri-La amidst the journey of exploration.

The House on Mango Street / Sandra Cisneros
Call number: PS3553.I78 C57 2012 CN/EN

This book is a novel created by the author based on her own experiences and social background. It consists of 44 short stories, depicting the coming-of-age journey of Esperanza, a Mexican-American girl, on Mango Street. Through Esperanza's transition from girlhood to womanhood, the author conveys multiple themes such as identity, feminism, poverty, and the dichotomy between dreams and reality. This book is not only a work of fiction but also a collection of discussions on social issues, aiming to provoke readers' reflection and attention to social problems. Additionally, the book is composed of both a Chinese translation and the original English version, suitable for readers with different language backgrounds.

All of the 5 books mentioned above have been shelved in the Atrium on the third floor of the SLAC. Patrons are welcome to borrow.