Description

Book Synopsis

A deliciously funny and moving comedy-of-manners about a Chinese father and son''s experiences at the height of London''s Jazz Age

''He was in London - why be bothered looking at it? Wasn''t it bad enough just being there?''

Newly arrived from China, Mr Ma and his son Ma Wei run an antiques shop nestled by St Paul''s Cathedral, where they try to make a living amid the smog and bustle of 1920s London. As they struggle with money, misunderstandings and the ways of the English - from the overbearing patronage of missionary Reverend Ely to their well-meaning landlady Mrs Weddeburn and her carefree daughter - can understanding, even love, blossom? Both a moving story of the Chinese immigrant experience and a bitingly funny satire on the English, Mr Ma and Son delicately portrays the dreams and disappointments of those seeking a new life in a distant land.

Translated by William Dolby, with an introduction by Julia Lovell

Mr Ma and Son Penguin Modern Classics

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    Order before 4pm today for delivery by Mon 27 Jul 2026.

    A Paperback / softback by Lao She, William Dolby

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      Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd
      Publication Date: Publication Date: 06/10/2022
      ISBN13: 9780241579558, 978-0241579558
      ISBN10: 0241579554

      Description

      Book Synopsis

      A deliciously funny and moving comedy-of-manners about a Chinese father and son''s experiences at the height of London''s Jazz Age

      ''      He was in London - why be bothered looking at it? Wasn''t it bad enough just being there?''

      Newly arrived from China, Mr Ma and his son Ma Wei run an antiques shop nestled by St Paul''s Cathedral, where they try to make a living amid the smog and bustle of 1920s London. As they struggle with money, misunderstandings and the ways of the English - from the overbearing patronage of missionary Reverend Ely to their well-meaning landlady Mrs Weddeburn and her carefree daughter - can understanding, even love, blossom? Both a moving story of the Chinese immigrant experience and a bitingly funny satire on the English, Mr Ma and Son delicately portrays the dreams and disappointments of those seeking a new life in a distant land.

      Translated by William Dolby, with an introduction by Julia Lovell

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