Barefoot Doctor: A Novel

A barefoot doctor in rural Yun Village, Mrs. Yi, uses herbs to treat the villagers' ailments and studies medicine by night. She hopes to find a worthy successor to take up her mantle, and as curious younger villagers imitate her work, they discover that the line dividing life from death is porous and the mountain is more mysterious than they ever knew.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 14 November 2023
Publisher: Yale University Press

A captivating tale unfolds within the picturesque village of Yun, nestled at the foot of the majestic Niulan Mountain. At the heart of this village resides Mrs. Yi, a skilled herbalist known for her healing prowess and kind heart. Alongside her husband, she resides in a humble cottage, where she diligently gathers herbs throughout the day, using them to alleviate the ailments of the villagers. As the sun sets, she delves into the realm of medicine, studying diligently to broaden her knowledge and expertise. Mrs. Yi possesses a profound belief that sickness and herbs are intertwined, forming a delicate dance of life and death. She joyfully celebrates when her remedies bring relief to the sick, offering solace and comfort in their time of need. However, her greatest aspiration lies in finding a worthy successor to carry on her legacy, passing on the knowledge and wisdom of traditional healing to the next generation.

As the curious younger villagers observe Mrs. Yi's extraordinary abilities, they are inspired by her dedication and passion. They begin to imitate her work, planting gardens and delving into the art of healing themselves. Little do they know, the line that separates life from death is not as rigid as they once believed, and the mountain holds secrets beyond their imagination.

In her remarkable novel, Can Xue draws upon her experiences as a barefoot doctor in her youth. Through vivid prose and intricate storytelling, she transports readers to the in-between spaces, where the living and the dead, the healer and the sick, nature and humanity converge. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the human condition, she weaves a tapestry of emotions and insights that leave a lasting impact.

"A Barefoot Doctor" is a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit. It reminds us of the importance of preserving traditional knowledge and the significance of connecting with nature. It is a story that resonates with readers of all ages, offering a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people who possess extraordinary abilities and a profound sense of purpose. As we journey alongside Mrs. Yi and the villagers of Yun, we are reminded of the beauty and complexity of life, and the power of compassion and healing.

Weight: 246g
Dimension: 133 x 198 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300274035