About the book
Originally banned in China but later named one of that nation’s most influential books, a searing novel that portrays one man’s transformation from the spoiled son of a landlord to a kindhearted peasant.
“A work of astounding emotional power.” —Dai Sijie, author of Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress
From the author of Brothers and China in Ten Words: this celebrated contemporary classic of Chinese literature was also adapted for film by Zhang Yimou. After squandering his family’s fortune in gambling dens and brothels, the young, deeply penitent Fugui settles down to do the honest work of a farmer. Forced by the Nationalist Army to leave behind his family, he witnesses the horrors and privations of the Civil War, only to return years later to face a string of hardships brought on by the ravages of the Cultural Revolution. Left with an ox as the companion of his final years, Fugui stands as a model of gritty authenticity, buoyed by his appreciation for life in this narrative of humbling power.
Editions of To Live
- Paperback
- ISBN 9781400031863
- EBook
- ISBN 9780307429797
Read an Excerpt
Originally banned in China but later named one of that nation’s most influential books, a searing novel that portrays one man’s transformation from the spoiled son of a landlord to a kindhearted peasant.
“A work of astounding emotional power.” —Dai Sijie, author of Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress
From the author of Brothers and China in Ten Words: this celebrated contemporary classic of Chinese literature was also adapted for film by Zhang Yimou. After squandering his family’s fortune in gambling dens and brothels, the young, deeply penitent Fugui settles down to do the honest work of a farmer. Forced by the Nationalist Army to leave behind his family, he witnesses the horrors and privations of the Civil War, only to return years later to face a string of hardships brought on by the ravages of the Cultural Revolution. Left with an ox as the companion of his final years, Fugui stands as a model of gritty authenticity, buoyed by his appreciation for life in this narrative of humbling power.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is To Live about?
Originally banned in China but later named one of that nation’s most influential books, a searing novel that portrays one man’s transformation from the spoiled son of a landlord to a kindhearted peasant.
“A work of astounding emotional power.” —Dai Sijie, author of Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress
From the author of Brothers and China in Ten Words: this celebrated contemporary classic of Chinese literature was also adapted for film by Zhang Yimou. After squandering his family’s fortune in gambling dens and brothels, the young, deeply penitent Fugui settles down to do the honest work of a farmer. Forced by the Nationalist Army to leave behind his family, he witnesses the horrors and privations of the Civil War, only to return years later to face a string of hardships brought on by the ravages of the Cultural Revolution. Left with an ox as the companion of his final years, Fugui stands as a model of gritty authenticity, buoyed by his appreciation for life in this narrative of humbling power.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in To Live?
Fiction > Historical fiction
Where can I read a sample of To Live?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9781400031863
Who is/are the Author/s of the book To Live?
Yu Hua
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
To Live is available as paperback(ISBN 9781400031863) and ebook(ISBN 9780307429797)
Where can I buy To Live online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy To Live from below