Ninth Building by Zou Jingzhi

Ninth Building is a compelling collection of vignettes that offer a unique perspective on the Cultural Revolution, focusing on the often overlooked aspects of tedium and wasted youth. Zou Jingzhi's poetic prose, beautifully translated by Jeremy Tiang, brings to life the desperate situations and dark humor that defined this tumultuous period. The book provides a raw and intimate look at the human experience during a time of great upheaval, making it a significant work of fiction that resonates with readers long after the last page is turned./n/nThe vignettes in Ninth Building are drawn from Zou Jingzhi's personal experiences, first in Beijing and later in the countryside, offering a deeply personal and authentic portrayal of the era. The collection has been recognized with a PEN/Heim Grant, highlighting its literary merit and the importance of its subject matter. Through these stories, readers gain insight into the resilience and ingenuity of those who lived through the Cultural Revolution, making it a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction and personal narratives.

Reviews

Open Letters Review · 2023-04-19

harrowing 4.50

The novel is a harrowing depiction of boyhood during the Cultural Revolution, translated with sensitivity by Jeremy Taing. It offers a raw and unflinching look at the author's experiences growing up in Beijing.

Zou Jingzhi's Ninth Building is a powerful and harrowing account of life during the Cultural Revolution, as seen through the eyes of a young boy. The translation by Jeremy Taing is notable for its sensitivity and ability to capture the nuances of the original text. The novel is structured as a series of vignettes, each offering a glimpse into the harsh realities and emotional turmoil of the era. The author's personal experiences lend an authenticity and depth to the narrative, making it a compelling and unforgettable read. The book's unflinching portrayal of the Cultural Revolution's impact on individuals is both moving and enlightening.

Quick quotes

Zou Jingzhi's novel Ninth Building, translated by Jeremy Taing, is a harrowing depiction of boyhood during the Cultural Revolution.

The novel offers a raw and unflinching look at the author's experiences growing up in Beijing.

The translation is sensitive and captures the nuances of the original text, making it a compelling and unforgettable read.

Rough Ghosts · 2023-04-12

insightful 4.25

The book is a cohesive work presented as a series of vignettes, set between 1966 and 1977. It effectively captures the essence of life during the Cultural Revolution through a common narrator.

Ninth Building by Zou Jingzhi is a beautifully crafted collection of vignettes that together form a cohesive narrative. Set between 1966 and 1977, the stories offer a poignant and insightful look into life during the Cultural Revolution. The common narrator ties the vignettes together, providing a sense of continuity and depth. The author's ability to capture the emotional and psychological impact of the era is remarkable. The book is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to convey complex historical and personal experiences. The vignettes are not only engaging but also thought-provoking, making the book a valuable addition to any reader's collection.

Quick quotes

Ninth Building is a cohesive work with a common narrator, but it is presented as a series of vignettes or very short stories, set between 1966 and 1977.

The book effectively captures the essence of life during the Cultural Revolution through a common narrator.

The author's ability to capture the emotional and psychological impact of the era is remarkable.

The Booker Prizes · 2022-05-16

thought-provoking 4.00

The book is a collection of interconnected stories that vividly depict life during the Cultural Revolution. The narrative is understated yet powerful, capturing the mundane and harrowing aspects of the era.

This book offers a unique perspective on the Cultural Revolution through a series of interconnected vignettes. The stories are woven together to create a cohesive narrative that highlights the tedium and harsh realities of life during this period. The author's understated approach allows the reader to immerse themselves in the daily struggles and gallows humor of the characters. It's a poignant and thought-provoking read that sheds light on a less-discussed aspect of history. The book's strength lies in its ability to convey the emotional and psychological impact of the Cultural Revolution on individuals, particularly young people.

Quick quotes

A kaleidoscopic and understated collection of interlocking tales of life in an apartment building under the Cultural Revolution – the daily struggles and gallows humor.

The novel captures the sheer tedium and waste of young life during the Cultural Revolution.

Zou Jingzhi's writing is both poignant and powerful, offering a unique perspective on a tumultuous period in history.

Appears in Lists

The Booker Library's Best Short Story Collections of 2025