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The Funeral Cryer

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( 774 ratings, 174 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Funeral Cryer by Wenyan Lu delves into the life of a professional mourner in rural China, whose job is to express grief at others' funerals. As she balances her unique occupation with her personal struggles, the narrative explores themes of tradition, community, and the search for personal fulfilment amidst societal expectations. This novel offers a poignant look at the intersection of ancient customs and modern life.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$2799
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy poignant tales set in contemporary China, where tradition and transformation intertwine. With its vivid storytelling, it depicts the life of a woman navigating personal trials, cultural expectations, and the intricate dynamics of family and community. Fans of heartfelt, character-driven narratives will likely find it compelling.

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The Funeral Cryer

An Yu's Braised Pork meets Flaubert's Madame Bovary in this unforgettable, tragicomic tale of one woman's mid-life re-awakening in contemporary rural China.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The Funeral Cryer long ago accepted the mundane realities of her life: avoided by fellow villagers because of the stigma attached to her job as a professional mourner and underappreciated by The Husband, whose fecklessness has pushed the couple close to the brink of break-up.

But just when things couldn't be bleaker, The Funeral Cryer takes a leap of faithβ€” and in so doing things start to take a surprising turn for the better.

Dark, moving and wry, The Funeral Cryer is both an illuminating depiction of a 'left behind' societyβ€” and proof that it's never too late to change your life.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Funeral Cryer by Wenyan Lu is praised for its insightful exploration of grief through the eyes of a professional mourner in rural China. Critics applaud the novel for its balance of tragic and comedic elements, providing a fresh perspective on mourning and society. The protagonist's journey of self-exploration offers a window into the clash between traditional and modern values. The novel’s elegant prose and captivating portrayal of rural Chinese life make it a standout debut with both wit and depth.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781838957568

Publisher: Atlantic Books

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 04 May 2023

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Atlantic Books

Edition: Export/Airside

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 8.0mm

Width: 240.0mm

Height: 240.0mm

Weight: 525g

Pages: 384

About the Author

Originally from Shanghai, China, Wenyan Lu is the winner of the SI Leeds Literary Prize 2020. Wenyan holds a Master of Studies in Creative Writing as well as a Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching Creative Writing from the University of Cambridge. Her unpublished historical novel The Martyr's Hymn was also longlisted for SI Leeds Literary Prize 2018 and Bridport First Novel Prize 2019.

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