To Live by Yu Hua

To Live

Yu Hua

256 pages • first pub 1992 (editions)

fiction historical challenging emotional sad slow-paced

Description

From the author of Brothers and China in Ten Words this celebrated contemporary classic of Chinese literature was also adapted for film by Zhang Yimou. This searing novel, originally banned in China but later named one of that nation's most influe...

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Community Reviews Summary of 488 reviews

Moods

emotional 85%
sad 85%
reflective 67%
dark 36%
challenging 20%
hopeful 18%
informative 14%
inspiring 14%
tense 10%
adventurous 7%
funny 7%
lighthearted 1%

Pace

medium 60%
fast 26%
slow 13%

Plot- or character-driven?

A mix: 43% | Character: 41% | Plot: 14%

Strong character development?

Yes: 90% | It's complicated: 9%

Loveable characters?

It's complicated: 46% | Yes: 46% | No: 6% | N/A: 2%

Diverse cast of characters?

Yes: 43% | It's complicated: 21% | N/A: 17% | No: 17%

Flaws of characters a main focus?

Yes: 83% | It's complicated: 12% | No: 4%

Average rating

4.21

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Content Warnings

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