Ki-tong Tcheng 
Chin-Chin; Or, The Chinaman at Home 

Ki-tong Tcheng’s novel ‘Chin-Chin; Or, The Chinaman at Home’ provides readers with a vivid and detailed portrayal of Chinese culture and society at the turn of the 20th century. Set in Chinatown in San Francisco, the book follows the story of a Chinese man navigating the complexities of assimilation and identity in a foreign land. Tcheng’s writing style is immersive and descriptive, capturing the reader’s attention with its nuanced exploration of cultural differences and the challenges faced by immigrants. Ki-tong Tcheng, a Chinese American author and activist, draws from his own experiences as a member of the Chinese diaspora to craft a compelling narrative that sheds light on the realities of Chinese immigrant life in America. His personal connection to the subject matter infuses the novel with authenticity and depth, making it a valuable contribution to Asian American literature. I highly recommend ‘Chin-Chin; Or, The Chinaman at Home’ to readers interested in exploring the immigrant experience, Chinese culture, and the complexities of identity. Tcheng’s novel offers a thought-provoking and engaging read that will resonate with audiences seeking to gain insight into the challenges faced by marginalized communities.

Sobre o autor

Tcheng Ki-tong, also known as Cheng Kitung, was a late 19th-century Chinese author and diplomat who made significant contributions to East-West cultural exchanges during his time. Born in the Qing Dynasty era, Tcheng bridged the chasm between the insular China of his early years and the increasingly connected world of his adult life. His notable work, ‘Chin-Chin; Or, The Chinaman at Home’ (also referred to as ‘The Chinese at Home’), offers an introspective glimpse into Chinese customs, traditions, and the societal norms of the day. Written from an insider’s perspective, this work was one of the first to introduce Western audiences to an authentic portrayal of Chinese domestic life. Utilizing a narrative style that encapsulates both storytelling and ethnographic observation, Tcheng’s book is an invaluable text for the historical understanding of Chinese culture and social practices, at a time when such authentic accounts were rare in the West. It captures the everyday experiences and philosophies underpinning a nation on the cusp of change, as seen through the eyes of an insightful native observer. Tcheng’s literary contributions are noted for their clarity, detail, and their disarming ability to foster cultural understanding through the power of prose. Consequently, his work stands not only as a literary achievement but also as a testament to the rich tapestry of Qing Dynasty society and the importance of cross-cultural dialogue.