Memories of Peking: South Side Stories
by Lin Haiyin
Sometimes you find that wonderful book that makes all the
‘not great’ books worth reading. Thanks to
the RA who suggested Memories of Peking –
South Side Stories by Lin Haiyin.
The book is a series of short stories that follow the timeline of
issues facing the author at age six. It
is a series of childhood memories capturing her early days living in an urban
center facing loneliness, distinguishing ‘good’ from ‘bad’, and reflecting on the
people who have brief but meaningful impacts in her life. It is a book that brings me back to my own
childhood, recall the few ‘characters’ who I still think about today, and made
me appreciate the aspects that make me unique.
Whether it be the local butcher, Ralph (whom I met in 2nd
grade before he moved away), or the substitute teacher who smiled and approved
of the work I did, these were the people who provided touch points to my youth. You will find the stories sad,
touching, and they will make you yearn for more. I can see why this remains a classic in Chinese
culture. A great book to go back in time
and appreciate those who helped us get where we are, but also to help us
reflect on people who shaped our ‘arc of life’.
It is a very quick read – six short stories, all interconnected, with a
very sad ending.
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