Prequel to Xiaoyue

This novel traces the emotional struggles, life choices, and pursuit of dreams shared by Xiaoyue - a young woman who ferries boats in a secluded mountain hollow - and two village youths, Menmen and Caicai, all set against the backdrop of a remote borderland community. At its heart, it captures the yearning for renewal and change among those living on China's frontier during the early years of the nation's reform and opening-up.

Overflowing with the fresh, unvarnished beauty reminiscent of Sh...