Promise: Love and Loss in Modern China

In the early 20th century in China, the Hans were married in an elaborate ceremony before they were born. They had nine children and chose colors portrayed in some of their favorite poems as nicknames for them. Fate and the sweep of twentieth-century history would later divide these children into three groups: three went to America or Hong Kong to protect the family line from the communists, three were married to revolutionaries, and three suffered tragic early deaths. Xinran's novel tells the story of this extraordinary family over four generations, portraying social change in China and how traditional Chinese values have been eroded by modernity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 29 November 2018
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In the early 20th century, in China, the Hans embarked on a remarkable journey of love and destiny. Their union was meticulously planned and orchestrated by their families, setting the course for their lives. Despite the predetermined path, this couple possessed a profound bond that transcended societal expectations. They shared a deep appreciation for ancient Chinese poetry, a passion that ignited their souls and shaped their lives together.

Their love story unfolded against the backdrop of a rapidly changing China. The winds of history swept through their lives, dividing their nine children into three distinct groups. Three of them embarked on a journey to America or Hong Kong, driven by a noble mission to safeguard their family's legacy from the encroaching forces of communism. Meanwhile, three others found solace in the arms of revolutionaries, aligning themselves with the tumultuous times as China embraced the red revolution. Tragically, three of their children met untimely ends, leaving behind a void that would forever impact their family.

Through the captivating narrative of Xinran, we embark on a journey spanning four generations. We witness the lives and loves of this extraordinary family, peeling back the layers of their experiences and emotions. What emerges is a poignant and captivating story that not only delves into the personal lives of four individuals but also provides a profound portrait of social change in China.

Xinran begins her tale with the enchanting and tragic wedding night of a young couple in 1950, setting the stage for the unfolding narrative. She weaves a tapestry of personal stories, sharing the profound losses, grief, and hardships that the Hans endured throughout China's extraordinary century. In doing so, she paints a larger picture, revealing how traditional Chinese values have gradually eroded under the relentless tide of modernity. The choices they made, the loves they pursued, and the outlooks on life have all been shaped by the seismic upheavals that have shaped Chinese history.

A spellbinding and magical narrative, this book weaves together the stories of the Hans and their descendants, offering a unique perspective on modern China. It is a story of love and loss, of resilience and adaptation, of the triumphs and tragedies that have defined a nation. Through the eyes of Xinran, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and contradictions that characterize the Chinese experience, and the profound impact that history has had on the lives of individuals and families.

As we immerse ourselves in this captivating narrative, we are transported back in time to witness the triumphs and challenges of a changing China. We see the Hans navigate the shifting tides of political ideologies, social movements, and cultural transformations. Their love story serves as a testament to the enduring power of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit.

In conclusion, "The Garlic Ballads" is a masterpiece of storytelling that offers a profound exploration of love, family, and the complexities of history. Through the eyes of Xinran, we gain a deeper understanding of the human experience and the profound impact that historical events have on individuals and societies. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in China, history, or the human condition, and it will leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.

Weight: 490g
Dimension: 220 x 139 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788313629