The novel is set in 1930s Edinburgh and follows the story of six girls under the tutelage of an unconventional teacher, Miss Jean Brodie. Miss Brodie, in her prime, takes it upon herself to educate the girls about life, love, politics, and art, often disregarding the traditional curriculum. The narrative explores the influence of Miss Brodie on the girls, the consequences of her nonconformist teachings, and the ultimate betrayal that leads to her downfall.

Set in 18th century Scotland, the novel explores the psychological downfall of a deeply religious man who believes he is predestined for salvation and thus justified in committing a series of murders. He is driven to this path of self-destruction by a mysterious stranger who may be either a devilish tempter or a manifestation of his own deranged mind. The book serves as a critique of religious fanaticism and a chilling exploration of the dark side of human nature.

"Call to Arms" is a collection of short stories that vividly capture the impact of the socio-political upheaval during the early 20th century in China. The narratives delve into the lives of ordinary people, predominantly the peasantry and the lower classes, who are often caught in the throes of societal change and struggle for survival. Through a blend of realism and symbolism, the stories explore themes of tradition versus modernity, the human condition, and the quest for justice, reflecting the author's critical engagement with the national and cultural issues of his time.

The book is a historical novel that recounts the War of Canudos, a conflict in late 19th-century Brazil over religious fanaticism, political instability, and social inequality. The story is centered around an apocalyptic movement led by a charismatic, messianic figure who convinces the poor and downtrodden to rise up against the Brazilian government, leading to a brutal and bloody conflict. The book explores themes of faith, power, poverty, and the destructive potential of fervent belief.

The novel is a historical tale set in 18th-century Scotland, revolving around Jeanie Deans, a young woman of strong moral character, who embarks on a daunting journey from Edinburgh to London to seek a royal pardon for her wrongfully accused sister, Effie, who faces execution. Along the way, Jeanie encounters various characters from different strata of society, confronting issues of justice, morality, and national identity. Her steadfast loyalty and unwavering principles highlight the cultural and social tensions of the time, as the narrative intertwines personal drama with broader historical events, including the Porteous Riots and the influence of the Scottish Reformation.

"Romance of the Three Kingdoms" is a historical novel set in the turbulent years towards the end of the Han dynasty and the Three Kingdoms period in Chinese history, starting in 169 AD and ending with the reunification of the land in 280. The story, part historical, part legend, and part mythical, romanticizes and dramatizes the lives of feudal lords and their retainers, who tried to replace the dwindling Han dynasty or restore it. The novel deals with the plots, personal and military battles, intrigues, and struggles of these states to achieve dominance for almost 100 years.

"The Water Margin: Outlaws of the Marsh" is a classic Chinese novel set during the Song dynasty, revolving around 108 outlaws who gather at Mount Liang to form a sizable army. The narrative explores themes of rebellion, loyalty, and justice, as these bandits challenge the corrupt and oppressive government. Despite their status as outlaws, they follow a strict code of honor and righteousness, often assisting the poor and the weak. The book is a blend of history, folklore, and mythology, offering a vivid portrayal of the political and social dynamics of the era.

Set in mid-20th century Peru, "Conversation in the Cathedral" is a complex narrative that explores the corruption, decay, and turmoil of the society under the dictatorial rule of Manuel A. Odria. The story mainly revolves around two characters - a wealthy newspaper owner's son and his family's former chauffeur. Their chance meeting leads to a lengthy conversation that unravels the intricate web of political and personal corruption, disillusionment, and lost dreams in their lives and in their country. The novel is a profound examination of the power dynamics, societal decay, and the human condition in a politically oppressive environment.

"The Feast of the Goat" is a historical novel set in the Dominican Republic during the rule of dictator Rafael Trujillo. It follows the story of Urania Cabral, a successful lawyer returning to her homeland after 30 years of self-imposed exile, and her struggle to confront the traumatic past that led to her departure. The narrative alternates between Urania's personal story and the brutal regime of Trujillo, providing a stark depiction of political tyranny and its effects on individual lives.

"Rickshaw Boy" is a novel about a young man living in Beijing in the 1920s who struggles to escape poverty and achieve personal independence. Despite his hard work and determination, he is continuously set back by societal and personal misfortunes, including failed business ventures, a disastrous marriage, and the loss of his rickshaw. The book serves as a critique of traditional Chinese society, illustrating the harsh realities of life for the working class during this time period.

The novel unfolds as a tale of prophecy and fate intertwined with the lives of its characters, primarily centering around Henry Bertram, the heir to the estate of Ellangowan, who is kidnapped as a child by smugglers after his father's financial ruin. The story spans over two decades, following Henry's adventures and misadventures as he grows up under an assumed identity. The narrative is rich with themes of loyalty, inheritance, and the supernatural, as the predictions of the astrologer Guy Mannering and the Gypsy matriarch Meg Merrilies play out in the lives of the Bertrams and their acquaintances. Set against the backdrop of the Scottish Lowlands, the tale weaves through a tapestry of social change and personal redemption, culminating in the restoration of family and fortune.

Set in the 17th century during the Covenanting Rebellion in Scotland, the novel weaves a tale of adventure, romance, and political intrigue around the historical events of the time. The story follows the young hero, Henry Morton, who is caught between his loyalty to the Presbyterian Covenanters and his love for Edith Bellenden, a Royalist. As Morton becomes embroiled in the conflict, he must navigate a path through the tumultuous civil war, facing moral dilemmas and the consequences of his choices. The narrative also explores themes of honor, tradition, and the impact of history on individual lives, all while providing a rich portrayal of Scottish culture and the complexities of religious and political loyalties.

This novel tells the story of two teenage boys sent to a remote mountain village for re-education during China's Cultural Revolution. There, they meet a local tailor's daughter, who becomes their friend and the object of their shared affection. The boys discover a hidden suitcase filled with forbidden Western classics in Chinese translation, and their lives are forever changed. The books not only awaken their passion for literature, but also allow them to educate the Seamstress, ultimately leading to a heartbreaking love triangle and a tale of personal freedom against the odds.

Set in the early 20th century in the fictional estate of Kinraddie in Scotland, the narrative follows the life of a young woman, Chris Guthrie, as she comes of age amidst the challenges of rural Scottish life. Torn between her love for the land and the pull of modernity, Chris navigates personal loss, the impact of World War I, and societal changes. The novel poignantly explores themes of identity, resilience, and the enduring connection to one's heritage, against the backdrop of the sweeping agricultural and social transformations of the time.

Set in the tumultuous 17th century Scotland, this tragic novel weaves a tale of doomed love and political intrigue. The story centers around the passionate and ill-fated romance between Edgar, the Master of Ravenswood, who is impoverished and seeking to restore his family's honor, and Lucy Ashton, the daughter of his father's political enemy. Their love is challenged by societal pressures, family enmity, and a relentless twist of fate, leading to a dramatic and harrowing conclusion that underscores the destructive power of vengeance and the inevitable tragedy that can arise from the rigid constraints of honor and duty.

Set in the mid-18th century, the novel weaves a tale of political intrigue and personal struggle, centered around a Jacobite rebellion plot. The story follows a young man who, while on a journey to discover his family's past, becomes entangled in a secret plan to restore the Stuart monarchy to the British throne. As he navigates a world of clandestine meetings, coded letters, and disguised identities, he encounters historical figures and experiences the tension between loyalty to one's heritage and the reality of contemporary political power. The narrative explores themes of honor, betrayal, and the complexities of allegiance during a tumultuous period in Scotland's history.

"A World for Julius" follows the life of Julius, a young boy from a wealthy, aristocratic family in Peru. The novel is a biting social critique of the Peruvian upper classes, as seen through the eyes of Julius, who is often at odds with his family's values and lifestyle. The narrative explores themes of class, privilege, and the struggle for identity in a world dominated by wealth and social status.

"Deep Rivers" is a novel that follows the life of a young boy who is caught between the Spanish and indigenous cultures of Peru. The protagonist is sent to a Catholic boarding school, where he experiences the harsh realities of social and racial divisions within the country. As he navigates these challenging circumstances, he develops a deep connection with the indigenous Andean culture and its spiritual relationship with nature. The novel is a profound exploration of identity, culture, and the struggle of indigenous peoples in a colonized society.

"Broad and Alien is the World" is a novel that explores the harsh realities of life for indigenous people in the Peruvian Andes under the oppressive rule of landowners. The story follows the struggles and ultimate downfall of the Rucas family as they resist the exploitation and abuse from those in power. The narrative is a poignant critique of the social injustices faced by indigenous communities and their fight for survival and dignity.

"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.

The novel is a stark portrayal of small-town life in Scotland at the turn of the 20th century, focusing on the Gourlay family, who are brought to ruin by the tyrannical and arrogant John Gourlay. Despite his initial success as a merchant, Gourlay's hubris and inability to adapt to changing times lead to his downfall, exacerbated by the malicious gossip and envy of his neighbors. The story is a grim depiction of the destructive power of pride and the often cruel nature of community life, where the failings of one family become a spectacle for public scorn and schadenfreude. The green shutters of the Gourlay's house come to symbolize the envy and the facade of respectability that hide the family's internal decay and disintegration.

"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.

"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.

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.

"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.