On Illness

Though low in rank, he dares not forget his country. As Japanese forces and their collaborators wreak havoc, witness a physician's devotion to his family and nation. The hardest patient to diagnose is yourself. When a red apricot tree blooms beyond the wall, see how an old man bears himself and shoulders his responsibilities. A profession that can heal illness through nothing but conversation, and a legendary tale of medicine in Northeast China. The other short stories in this collection, apart from "Diagnosing Through Conversation," portray human nature, explore family bonds, or critique the ills of society. Each has its own brilliance and flavor, and is well worth reading.