63 pages • 2 hours read
To Live
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Book Brief
256
Novel • Fiction
China • 20th Century
1992
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
To Live by Yu Hua follows the struggles of Fugui and his family through four decades of modern Chinese history. Told through an unnamed narrator, who meets Fugui while collecting folk songs, the story reveals Fugui's fall from wealth due to gambling, his conscription into the National Army, and the subsequent hardships he and his family face. Despite enduring severe losses and hardships, Fugui's resilience reflects China's perseverance through societal upheavals. The story includes sensitive topics such as illness, death, and poverty.
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Emotional
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
20,044 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Yu Hua's To Live is widely praised for its compelling portrayal of resilience amid hardship, capturing the raw essence of human suffering and perseverance. Critics commend its vivid character development and gripping narrative. However, some argue that the relentless bleakness can be overwhelming. Overall, it is lauded for its emotional depth and historical insight.
Who Should Read To Live?
A reader who would enjoy To Live by Yu Hua appreciates profound, emotive stories of human resilience amid socio-political upheavals. Fans of Wild Swans by Jung Chang or The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck would find similar themes of personal endurance and historical transformation. This audience values historical fiction interwoven with deep emotional and cultural insights.
20,044 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jiazhen
Jiazhen
Fugui's wife, who remains loyal and hardworking through their shared hardships, providing emotional support and stability for her family.
Fengxia
Fengxia
Fugui and Jiazhen's daughter, known for her beauty and hard-working nature, lives life assisting her family despite her disabilities.
Youqing
Youqing
Fugui’s son, characterized by his energetic nature and loyalty to his family, balances school with helping on the family farm.
Chunsheng
Chunsheng
Fugui's war-time comrade, who rises to prominence during the political upheavals in China, reflecting on themes of change and loyalty.
The Narrator
The Narrator
The person through whom Fugui’s story is shared, providing a reflective view on the events and changes in Fugui’s life.
Long Er
Long Er
The man to whom Fugui loses his family wealth, becoming the landlord of Fugui’s former land and showing kindness by allowing Fugui to rent part of that land.
256
Novel • Fiction
China • 20th Century
1992
Adult
18+ years
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