The Vagrants
The Vagrants
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Brief
Beta352
Novel • Fiction
Muddy River, China • 1970s
2009
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Vagrants by Yiyun Li explores the social and political tensions in late 1970s rural China through the interconnected lives of individuals in a small town. Following a public execution, the narrative delves into the impact on various community members, revealing themes of repression, resilience, and the quest for personal freedom amid a repressive regime.
Dark
Melancholic
Unnerving
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
4,745 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Vagrants by Yiyun Li is commended for its lyrical prose and poignant exploration of life in 1970s China, capturing the human cost of political oppression. Critics praise Li's character depth and emotional resonance. However, some note the narrative's bleakness and complex structure may challenge readers. Despite this, the novel's rich detail and historical insight are highly regarded.
Who Should Read The Vagrants?
A reader who appreciates The Vagrants by Yiyun Li likely enjoys intricate narratives about social change and human resilience, akin to those in Wild Swans by Jung Chang. Fans of politically charged historical fiction that delves into personal and communal struggles would find this compelling.
4,745 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
352
Novel • Fiction
Muddy River, China • 1970s
2009
Adult
18+ years
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