Ge Yan Libri

A New York Times Editors' Choice and Notable Book of 2021 "Best Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror of 2021"—The Washington Post From one of the most exciting voices in contemporary Chinese literature, an uncanny and playful novel that blurs the line between human and beast… In the fictional Chinese city of Yong’an, an amateur cryptozoologist is commissioned to uncover the stories of its fabled beasts. These creatures live alongside humans in near-inconspicuousness—save their greenish skin, serrated earlobes, and strange birthmarks. Aided by her elusive former professor and his enigmatic assistant, our narrator sets off to document each beast, and is slowly drawn deeper into a mystery that threatens her very sense of self. Part detective story, part metaphysical enquiry, Strange Beasts of China engages existential questions of identity, humanity, love and morality with whimsy and stylistic verve.

Set against the backdrop of contemporary small-town life in China, this gripping psychological tale offers a deep exploration of human emotions and societal dynamics. The narrative is enriched with sharp insights that reveal the complexities of relationships and the darker sides of community interactions, making it a compelling read that delves into the psyche of its characters.

The highly anticipated English-language debut from a literary star - nine iridescent, beguiling, witty and wonderous stories of dispossession and longing.

Im Städtchen Pingle in der chinesischen Provinz Sichuan wird so scharf gegessen, dass die Leute mit einem Loch in der Zunge groß werden. Frau Duan genießt als Matriarchin des örtlichen Bohnenpasten-Imperiums höchstes Ansehen. Die Feier zu ihrem achtzigsten Geburtstag soll ein gesellschaftliches Großereignis werden. Doch die von überallher anreisende Verwandtschaft hat nicht nur gute Wünsche im Gepäck ...