One Day Three Autumns

Yanjin is terrorized by Hua Erniang, a forsaken spirit that rules over their dreams. Mingliangs life is difficult, and he heads west across China's central plain, encountering restless souls mortgaged to debts from former lives. He tries to start afresh, but some wounds take more than a lifetime to heal. A few wisecracks tucked into the back pocket won't hurt.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2024
Publisher: ACA Publishing Limited

The people of Yanjin have a reputation for always having a few jokes up their sleeves. For three thousand years, they have been under the rule of Hua Erniang, a forsaken spirit that controls their dreams. If they fail to amuse this supernatural guest, they risk never waking up, crushed by her jilted heart, which has hardened into a mountain.

Mingliang's life is marked by hardship and adversity, as he grows up in a town influenced by socialist ideals. Determined to seek a better future, he embarks on a journey west across China's vast central plain. Along the way, he encounters countless restless souls burdened by debts from past lives, each reluctant to move on for their own reasons. Despite his attempts to start anew, he cannot escape the lingering effects of a broken home. Some wounds take a lifetime to heal, but a well-timed joke can provide temporary relief.

In this context, humor becomes a coping mechanism, a way to lighten the burden of difficult circumstances. The people of Yanjin have learned to use laughter to navigate the challenges they face, finding solace in the darkest moments. Their jokes may be corny or silly, but they serve as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always a chance to smile and find humor.

As Mingliang continues his journey, he encounters a wise old man who offers him some advice. The man tells him, "Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you're going to get." Mingliang reflects on this statement, realizing that even in the most uncertain times, there is always a chance for something unexpected to happen. He continues to carry a few jokes in his back pocket, ready to share them with anyone who needs a laugh.

In conclusion, the people of Yanjin have a unique perspective on life, one that is shaped by their long-standing relationship with Hua Erniang and the hardships they have faced. Through humor, they have learned to cope with the challenges they encounter, finding solace in the darkest moments. Their jokes may be corny or silly, but they serve as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always a chance to smile and find humor. As Mingliang continues his journey, he carries these lessons with him, ready to face whatever challenges come his way.

Dimension: 216 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838905835