My first encounter with this story was through the movie based on the longest novella. Finding it a very good watch, I decided to search for the book. I really enjoyed the novellas, though they may have been a bit depressing at points. The stories seemed very realistic and kept my attention. I'd definitely recommend Su Tong's books.

like many people who have read this book, i was first introduced to it through the movie, and although i enjoyed both reading the book and watching the movie, the book in my opinion is much superior. the movie leans away from the novella greatly. one major difference there are not even red lanterns in the novella which are a major part of the movie. also the main characters's personality is delved into more as well as that as the master's son. read this book it is great

It is not a shock to me that Su Tong, as well as his comparable contemporaries, have not been elected as the Nobel Laureat. Chinese would be distorted in English translation, for they are basically two systems of language (apart from the suppression/ignorant omission of the Europe localism). If you know Chinese, you should try the book in the original language, then you will find so pretty and intriguing Su Tong's narration is. He is in the style of Raymond Chandler.

At first I thought this was going to be just a disappointing puff piece about Mike Dukakis, and it is incredibly pro-Dukakis. Accepting that, it also includes an excellent blow by blow of the election up to the conventions. Those interested in elections (especially 88) and how they are run should read it, regardless of what they though of 'The Duke'. The coverage of the Democratic side (Biden, Jackson, Gephardt, Hart, Simon ect) is especially good. The unflattering portrait of Al Gore will be of interest to the former VPs friends and foes alike. B+