Authors & Asia: Xiaolu Guo, I Am China

“A harrowing glimpse into post-Tiananmen repression in China… A semi-epistolary tale powered by what’s repressed and unsayable.” — Kirkus Reviews

Renowned author Xiaolu Guo’s newest novel I Am China explores rock ’n’ roll, revolution, and romance, seductively woven together in an intense and moving work. Guo—whose writing has been described as “original, humorous, and wise” (Amy Tan) and “funny and charming” (The Guardian)—will visit Asia Society Texas Center in support of her new release.

Following the program, Guo will visit with guests and sign books. Brazos Bookstore will sell I Am China on site, and copies can be reserved in advance through their website for pickup at the event.

About the Novel

In her North London flat, Iona Kirkpatrick sets to work on a new project translating a collection of letters and diaries by a Chinese musician. With each letter and journal entry, Iona becomes more and more intrigued with the unfolding story of two lovers: Jian, a punk rocker who believes there is no art without political commitment, and Mu, the young woman he loves as fiercely as his ideals.

About Xiaolu Guo

Xiaolu Guo was born in a fishing village in south China. She studied film at the Beijing Film Academy and published six books in China before she moved to London in 2002. The English translation ofVillage of Stone was shortlisted for the Independent Foreign Fiction Prize and nominated for the International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award. Her first novel written in English, A Concise Chinese-English Dictionary for Lovers, was shortlisted for the Orange Broadband Prize for Fiction, and 20 Fragments of a Ravenous Youth, published in 2008, was longlisted for the Man Asian Literary Prize. She was named one of Granta’s Best of Young British Novelists 2013.

About Y. Ping Sun

Y. Ping Sun is of counsel with the law firm of Yetter Coleman LLP and Rice University Representative. Ping serves on the advisory board of Rice’s Kinder Institute for Urban Research, and as honorary co-chair of Rice’s Baker Institute Roundtable. She is a trustee of Asia Society Texas Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, and the United Way of Greater Houston. Ping also serves on the advisory board of Asian Chamber of Commerce, Chinese Community Center, and the chair of the Mayor’s International Trade and Development Council for Asia/Australia. She received her AB from Princeton University and JD from Columbia Law School.