As a sequel to the classic Jigong stories, The Sequel to the Tale of Jigong carries on the spirit of its predecessor while striking out in new directions and opening up a broader narrative world. It moves beyond the earlier work's focus on chivalry among ordinary folk, taking Jigong from the narrow streets into the worlds of court and jianghu to tell a tale of defending the homeland and punishing evil.
The story follows Jigong and his disciples as they move among the descendants of loyal ministers and heroes of the jianghu. With supernatural powers and ingenious magic, Jigong helps those in danger, vanquishes demons, and outmaneuvers and punishes treacherous ministers who sell out their country, along with members of the imperial family. In the end, he quells the internal turmoil in the “Great Di Kingdom” and safeguards peace and prosperity throughout the Southern Song. The twists and turns link together one thrilling episode after another, from rescuing heroes through clever schemes and burning down bandit lairs to breaking prisoners out of an execution ground and matching wits at court. Feuds in the jianghu intertwine with matters of national importance, making for an engrossing tale.
Jigong's character reaches new heights in this work. The “eccentric monk” who once wandered the world for amusement becomes a loyal, courageous, and far-sighted living Buddha who saves the people. His playful, irreverent nature now carries an even deeper sense of duty to the country. The accessible, conversational language and vivid characterizations preserve the humor at the heart of the Jigong stories while adding a profound love of country. It is a distinctive work among contemporary novels about Jigong.
