I could not put this book down. I have just finished it and feel heart broken and so moved by the story or stories within. I have been studying Mandarin for five years and still have much to learn. I have been fortunate to visit China three times and love learning about this wonderful country, its languages, culture and history. I am working my way through Xinran’s amazing books, as well as those by other writers. I plan another trip to China in the next year or two; I am smitten by this country and its people. Keep up the wonderful work, Xinran.