Author Xue Yiwei on Shenzheners, short stories and the ‘real’ China

Xue Yiwei is a writer between continents. Described as “a maverick in contemporary Chinese literature” by Ha Jin, winner of the National Book Award, most of Xue’s work has been written from his adopted home of Montreal, Canada. Originally from China’s Hunan province, Xue’s recently translated collection of short stories, Shenzheners, was inspired by (and dedicated to)…

Mosques of Beijing

When you think of spirituality in China, you probably think of the big bad Buddha. Maybe Confucius also springs to mind, with his wise words on filial piety and education and everything in between. What you might not think of, however, is Islam. Many people who consider the Western world their starting point associate Islam…

Not white, not quite: eating disorders and ethnic minorities

Today is Chinese New Year. Millions of families will be coming together to eat and drink in abundance, welcoming in the Year of the Monkey. For families who have left China for the UK or US, separation from the ancestors will feel particularly acute. For the children of these families, the New Year is a…