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NPR's Book of the Day
Juli Min's novel 'Shanghailanders' unfolds in reverse
Aug 7, 2024
Juli Min, the debut novelist, takes listeners on a captivating journey through her book, where a family's story unfolds in reverse from 2040 to 2014. In conversation with Ailsa Chang, they explore the complexity of relationships and the rich backdrop of Shanghai, which serves as a character in itself. Min discusses her innovative narrative choice, highlighting how personal history shapes identity and the emotional depth this backward storytelling provides. She also shares her personal journey of finding belonging in a bustling city.
08:51
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Quick takeaways
- The reverse chronological order of 'Shanghailanders' allows readers to understand characters' complexities, highlighting how past choices shape their present.
- The inclusion of ancillary characters in the narrative provides a social commentary on Shanghai's disparities, emphasizing love's transcendent nature across social classes.
Deep dives
Storytelling in Reverse
The novel, told in reverse chronological order, begins in 2040 and slowly unfolds back to 2014, which creates a unique narrative experience. This structure allows readers to first form their judgments about the characters before revealing their backstories and the complexities of their lives. Through this technique, the author aims to highlight how the past intricately shapes individuals and their relationships, encouraging deeper understanding and empathy. By gradually uncovering secrets and traumas, the narrative seeks to engage readers emotionally, shifting their perceptions of the characters as they journey back through time.
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Discover
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