Wutong Alley, 1978

The young people of five families (Huang, Lin, Chen, Sun, and Wang) living in a Beijing hutong grow up, part ways, and return, as the rings of trees intertwine with the rings of history. Five families, five social classes (industry, education, commerce, culture, and self-employment), and five different paths come together to compose an era's symphony. This is not only a sweeping account of the times, but also a story of individuals struggling, making choices, and holding fast amid the tide of change. Love, friendship, and family bonds are tested and deepened during a turbulent era. Through the different industries the five families work in, the novel paints a multifaceted picture of China's economy during the Reform and Opening-Up period. The clash between the outlooks of two generations shifts from fierce conflict to eventual understanding and inheritance, striking a deep chord with readers.