River east, river west - Aube Rey Lescure

LONGLISTED FOR THE WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTION 2024

A mesmerising reversal of the east-west immigrant narrative set against China's economic boom,River East, River Westis a deeplymoving exploration of race, identity and family, of capitalism's false promise and private dreams.

Shanghai, 2007: feeling betrayed by her American mother's engagement to their rich landlord Lu Fang, fourteen-year-old Alva begins plotting her escape. But the exclusive American School - a potential ticket out - is not what she imagined.

Qingdao, 1985: newlywed Lu Fang works as a lowly shipping clerk. Though he aspires to a bright future, he is one of many casualties of harsh political reforms. Then China opens up to foreigners and capital, and Lu Fang meets awoman who makes him question what he should settle for...