Land of Big Numbers

Te-Ping Chen's Land of Big Numbers is a collection of ten stories set in China that explore the desires and losses of a richly drawn cast, capturing the realities of contemporary China. The stories are vivid, comic, timely, and profound, with a superb eye for detail and characters that are achingly alive. The book is a dazzling debut collection that announces the birth of a bright new star in the literary firmament.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2022
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd

In his captivating collection of ten stories, Te-Ping Chen takes readers on a journey through the vibrant and complex landscape of modern China. Drawing on his experience as a former investigative reporter who spent several years in Beijing, Chen offers a poignant and insightful portrayal of the lives of a diverse cast of characters.

The Land of Big Numbers is a masterpiece of storytelling, seamlessly blending humor, tragedy, and social commentary. Through his vivid descriptions and intricate characterizations, Chen transports readers to the heart of China, where they witness the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people living in a rapidly changing society.

One of the standout stories in the collection is "The Gaming Brother," which follows the journey of a young man named Chen as he competes in the world of online gaming. Chen's obsession with gaming has led him to neglect his family and his studies, but his determination to win brings him face to face with the darker side of the gaming industry.

Another notable story is "The Communist Government," which tells the tale of a twin sister who blogs about the corruption and abuses of the Chinese government. Despite the risks, her blog becomes a source of hope and inspiration for many people who are fed up with the status quo.

"The New Fruit" is a delightful and thought-provoking story that explores the impact of a new fruit that arrives in a small Chinese town. The fruit has a mysterious effect on the locals, causing them to experience strange dreams and emotions. Chen uses this story to explore the complexities of human nature and the power of unexpected events.

"The Shanghai Dream" is a poignant tale of a young woman named Mei who dreams of making it big in the city of Shanghai. However, her dreams are stalled when she finds herself working as a florist. Through her struggles and setbacks, Chen explores the challenges faced by young people in China as they navigate the complexities of the modern world.

The Land of Big Numbers is not just a collection of stories; it is a profound exploration of the human condition. Chen's writing is filled with empathy and compassion, as he sheds light on the struggles and joys of his characters. He challenges readers to think critically about the world around them and to consider the impact of their actions on others.

In conclusion, Te-Ping Chen's The Land of Big Numbers is a must-read for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of modern China. With his masterful storytelling and insightful commentary, Chen has announced himself as a bright new star in the literary firmament. This collection is a testament to the power of storytelling to connect people and to shed light on the complexities of the human experience.

Weight: 232g
Dimension: 130 x 198 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781471190612