"Confusion" is a compelling narrative that explores the intense and passionate relationship between a student and his charismatic professor. Set in the early 20th century, the story unfolds as the protagonist becomes entangled in the professor's personal life, discovering his mentor's secret past, his struggling marriage, and his hidden homosexual desires. The book presents a profound exploration of human emotions, identity, and the complexities of love, against the backdrop of the societal norms of the time.

The novel explores the complex emotions and consequences that arise when a young lieutenant, succumbing to societal pressure, feigns romantic interest in a disabled young woman. His pity-driven actions lead to an entanglement of obligation, guilt, and false hope, ultimately culminating in a tragic series of events. Set against the backdrop of the Austro-Hungarian Empire on the brink of World War I, the story delves into the psychological depths of its characters, examining the moral dilemmas and the devastating impact of pity when it is mistaken for love.

"The Guiltless" is a novel that explores the disintegration of values and the rise of fascism in Germany between the two World Wars. It follows the lives of several characters, including a businessman, a musician, and a murderer, whose stories intertwine to paint a picture of a society in moral and social decline. The narrative delves into their personal struggles and moral dilemmas, reflecting the broader societal issues of the time and offering a critique of the political climate that allowed for the rise of totalitarian regimes.

"Amok" is a novella that delves into the mind of a European doctor, who, while working in the Dutch East Indies, becomes obsessed with a wealthy and married female patient. The doctor's fixation spirals into a dangerous and self-destructive passion after she asks him to perform an illegal abortion. The story is a psychological exploration of obsession, guilt, and moral boundaries, told through the doctor's confession to a stranger during a ship journey.

"None but the Brave" is a novel that explores the complexities of human emotions, relationships, and social norms in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of middle-class Austrians whose comfortable lives are disrupted when they become entangled in a series of romantic and sexual affairs. The narrative delves into their individual struggles, their moral dilemmas, and the societal expectations that they grapple with. The book is a profound examination of the human condition, highlighting the courage it takes to face one's desires and fears.

"Cold Nights" is a poignant love story set in the backdrop of China's turbulent political climate during the 1940s. The narrative follows the protagonist, Wan Da, as he navigates through the hardships of life, love, illness, and death. As his wife, Zhenzhen, falls ill with tuberculosis, Wan Da's struggle to secure medical help for her amidst the chaos of war paints a vivid picture of human endurance and the power of love. The book also explores themes of existentialism and the human condition, offering a profound look at life's hardships and the strength of the human spirit.

"Death Of A Red Heroine" is a crime novel set in 1990s Shanghai, China. The story follows Inspector Chen Cao as he investigates the murder of a young woman, whose body is found in a canal. As Chen delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of corruption, political intrigue, and personal secrets that challenge his loyalty to the Communist Party and force him to confront the complexities of modern Chinese society. Through vivid descriptions of Shanghai's changing landscape and insightful commentary on social issues, the novel offers a captivating portrayal of a country in transition.

"Teahouse" is a historical drama that explores 50 years of Chinese history (1898-1948) through the microcosm of a Beijing teahouse. The narrative follows the lives of the teahouse owner and his customers, reflecting the social changes, political turmoil, and cultural shifts of the time. The story provides a deep insight into the Chinese society, its traditions, and the impact of Western influence. It also highlights the struggle of the common people amidst corruption, oppression, and the collapse of traditional values.

"A Hero Born" is the first installment in an epic martial arts saga set in the Song Dynasty of China, where the story follows the life of Guo Jing, a young boy from a humble background. After his father, a loyal Song patriot, is murdered, Guo Jing is raised by Genghis Khan in the Mongolian steppes. Throughout his adventures, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, learns from legendary martial arts masters, and is imbued with the values of honor, loyalty, and the complex moralities of warfare and brotherhood. His destiny is intertwined with the fate of his nation as he embarks on a quest to become a true hero and to confront formidable enemies that threaten the very fabric of the martial arts world.

"Weights and Measures" is a poignant narrative that delves into the life of a conscientious imperial weights and measures inspector, who is uprooted from his contented existence in the city to a remote border town. In this new environment, he struggles with the corruption and indifference of the local merchants, which stands in stark contrast to his own principled nature. His sense of duty and his quest for justice become increasingly burdensome, leading to a profound personal crisis that reflects the broader decay of societal values in a world on the brink of great change and upheaval.

The book is a classic children's story about a brave and spirited little girl living in a Parisian boarding school. Despite being the smallest girl in the group, Madeline is fearless, full of mischief, and the leader of her peers. The tale is especially known for its rhythmic text and distinctive illustrations, capturing the essence of Paris. The plot takes a dramatic turn when Madeline must go to the hospital for an appendectomy, showing her courage and earning the admiration of her friends. The story is a celebration of childhood, resilience, and the adventures that can be found in everyday life.

"Heavy Wings" is a novel that explores the societal changes in China during the late 20th century. It follows the story of a group of innovative engineers striving to design and build China's first large-scale commercial aircraft. Despite facing numerous challenges such as lack of resources, political interference, and personal struggles, they remain committed to their mission, symbolizing the spirit of perseverance and innovation. The story is a reflection of China's journey towards modernization and technological advancement.

The novel explores the themes of love, dominance, submission, and power dynamics through the story of a man who becomes infatuated with a woman named Wanda. He convinces her to enter into a contract where he becomes her slave, allowing her to treat him in any way she pleases. Over time, the man's obsession with being humiliated and dominated leads him to a path of self-destruction as he grapples with his desires and the reality of his situation. The novel is a vivid portrayal of masochism and the complexities of human sexuality.

"Wittgenstein's Nephew" is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the friendship between the narrator and his friend Paul, who is the nephew of the famous philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein. The story takes place in Vienna and is set against the backdrop of the Austrian mental health system. The novel delves into themes of sanity, insanity, and the fine line that separates the two, while also offering a critique of Austrian society. It is a meditation on the nature of illness, both physical and mental, and the impact it has on personal relationships and one's perception of the world.

The book is a satirical novel that offers a critical examination of the Chinese scholarly class and the civil service examination system of Imperial China. Through a series of interlinked stories, it follows the lives, careers, and misadventures of a diverse group of scholars, exposing the corruption, pettiness, and hypocrisy that pervade the academic and bureaucratic worlds. The narrative delves into the scholars' pursuit of literary glory and official rank, often at the expense of genuine morality and wisdom, providing a humorous yet poignant commentary on the social and educational values of the time.

This book is a poignant exploration of the author's mother's life and her struggle with depression, ultimately leading to her suicide. It provides a deeply personal and raw account of the author's attempts to understand his mother's despair and the societal constraints that contributed to it. The narrative is a profound reflection on memory, loss, and the complexity of human emotions, offering a stark and moving portrayal of a woman's life in a rigid, post-war society.

This novel provides a deeply personal account of the author's experiences during China's Cultural Revolution and his subsequent imprisonment in a labor camp. The protagonist struggles with the harsh realities of his imprisonment, including starvation and physical abuse, while also grappling with his own identity and the societal expectations of masculinity. His release and subsequent marriage only further complicate his quest for self-understanding, as he navigates the challenges of reintegrating into society and maintaining a relationship with a woman who has her own traumatic past.

This novel is a dark and atmospheric tale set in the mystical alleys of Prague's Jewish ghetto. It weaves the story of a man who, haunted by amnesia, embarks on a surreal journey to uncover his identity. Along the way, he encounters a series of bizarre and enigmatic characters, including the mythical Golem, a creature molded from clay and brought to life through ancient Kabbalistic magic. The narrative delves deep into themes of existential dread, mysticism, and the blurred lines between reality and illusion, all while painting a vivid picture of early 20th-century Prague and its rich Jewish folklore. Through its complex plot and haunting imagery, the book explores the depths of human consciousness and the mysteries that lie beyond the surface of the known world.

This novel is a satirical science fiction tale that transports the reader to Mars, where the protagonist, a Chinese man, finds himself stranded in a society inhabited by cat-like humanoids. The narrative delves into the peculiarities and dysfunctions of this Martian civilization, known as Cat Country, highlighting its inhabitants' indolence, corruption, and societal decay. Through the lens of this alien society, the author critiques various aspects of early 20th-century Chinese society, politics, and culture, using the allegorical Cat Country to reflect on human follies, the dangers of political apathy, and the consequences of societal neglect. The story is both a unique exploration of extraterrestrial life and a poignant commentary on the human condition.

"The Afternoon of a Writer" is a contemplative exploration of a day in the life of a solitary writer who, after a successful morning of writing, decides to take a walk through an unnamed European city. As he strolls, he grapples with feelings of alienation and existential dread, questioning his purpose and the worth of his work. The book delves into the writer's inner struggles, his observations of the world around him, and his reflections on the act of writing itself.

"The Last World" is a novel that reimagines the exile of the Roman poet Ovid in a remote village at the edge of the Black Sea. The story is set in a mythical time and place, where the villagers are haunted by strange transformations and echoes of Ovid's metamorphoses. The novel blurs the lines between the real and the imaginary, the past and the present, and the world of the living and the dead, creating a surreal and dreamlike atmosphere.

This collection of stories offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of Chinese women in the early 20th century, grappling with issues of personal freedom, gender roles, and societal expectations. The titular story, written in diary form, provides an intimate look at the emotional turmoil of a young woman confronting her own desires and the constraints placed upon her by traditional norms. The other narratives in the collection similarly explore the inner lives and struggles of women seeking to define themselves in a rapidly changing world, often touching on themes of love, independence, and self-discovery. Through these stories, the book paints a vivid portrait of the complexities of modern womanhood in a society in transition.

The novel explores the life of a young Austrian woman who finds herself in a stifling marriage with a fisherman in a small coastal village. As she grapples with the mundane and oppressive nature of her daily life, she yearns for freedom and self-discovery. The sea, with its salt, becomes a metaphor for her tears and the bitterness she experiences, as well as the vast possibilities that lie beyond her current existence. Her internal struggle and the choices she faces reflect the broader themes of women's liberation and the search for identity in a world that often limits female autonomy.

This collection of stories showcases the work of a renowned 19th-century Austrian author, known for his detailed and vivid descriptions of nature and the human condition. The stories explore themes of morality, beauty, and the simplicity of rural life, often through the eyes of children or simple folk. The author's style is characterized by a slow pace, meticulous attention to detail, and an emphasis on the moral and aesthetic values of the characters.

"Love in a Fallen City" is a collection of novellas and short stories that delve into the complexities of love, betrayal, and societal expectations in mid-20th century China. The stories primarily focus on women navigating the challenging terrain of romance and marriage in a rapidly changing society. The titular story captures the tumultuous relationship between a divorced woman and a playboy against the backdrop of World War II, exploring themes of survival, traditional values, and personal transformation. Through elegant prose and deep psychological insight, the book portrays the collision of Eastern and Western cultures and the personal struggles of individuals caught in the throes of historical upheaval.