Those Stories from Liutiao Hutong

Set in a small city in Northeast China, the story follows two close friends, high school students Zhang Tianliang and Wang Haitao, through the ups and downs of life at school and beyond.

Zhang Tianliang is the son of Zhang Laosan, a local builder, and is forthright and loyal. Wang Haitao, the son of the police chief, is clever yet levelheaded. The two get caught skipping class at an internet cafe, sneak cigarettes in the restroom, and argue with classmates in the hallway, facing the troubles every teenager knows. The strict discipline of Dean Hao, the quiet support of their PE teacher, Mr. Su, the harassment of school bully Er Leizi, and the subtle affection of the class beauty, Fan Shiyi, all make their youth a tumultuous time.

Through a series of lively, vivid dialogues, the novel captures the distinctive humor and candor of people from Northeast China. From getting their parents called in to brotherly loyalty, from classroom antics to trouble outside school. A tribute to the eldest son-in-law.