Critical Praise

"The collection, part W.G. Sebald and part Italo Calvino, provides a glimpse for the Western reader into the complicated, vibrant world of Beijing. "

—Publishers Weekly

"An ingenious, often surreal account of the tensions between ancient tradition and go-go capitalism. [Tel] demonstrates an impressive range of tones, subjects and stratagems…Smart, subtly observed and entertaining."

—Kirkus Reviews

"Each vignette, regardless of tone, is imbued with a subtle and playful humour throughout, and also a sense of Chinese history and culture...an enjoyable, insightful read."

—Time Out Beijing