Rating: 
Summary: A Creative Masterpiece
Review: Written in 1750, The Story of the Stone is an impressive and fascinating tale that incorporates otherworldly magic and mysticism with the saga of wealthy Jia family. The five-volume story chronicles the family's high-living glory days through their bitter decline, all the while immersing the reader in rich details of daily life in 18th century China. I completely agree with the following quote from the Times Higher Educational Supplement: "an astonishing book. It recreates a world that would otherwise be utterly lost." Anyone even mildly interested in Chinese history and culture will be enthralled by this glimpse into the privileged world of wealthy 18th century Chinese.Author Cao Xueqin was truly a creative genius - Story of the Stone is multi-faceted, multi-dimensional, and superbly crafted. While reading the first chapter of the first book (Dream of the Red Chamber), I was struck with how utterly clever and imaginative the story is. You will instantly be aware that you are reading something that has endured almost three hundred years for a very good reason. The story is populated with dozens of wonderfully three-dimensional characters - many of whom are woven in and out of the story making for a most interesting read. Most notable is the spoiled and curiously effeminate protagonist Jia Bao-yu, who possesses a special, magical item that I won't reveal here (don't want to spoil your enjoyment of the book!). All of the elements that make traditional Chinese literature such a joy to read are embodied in Story of the Stone. Elaborate settings, delicate verse, and traditional symbolism (with a healthy dose of humor and bawdiness) create a beautiful and riveting story that will keep you wanting more. I highly recommend reading the entire 5-book series. It is impressive that a work can stand the test of time as well as Story of the Stone has. David Hawkes' fine translation is excellent. Although some have criticized him for using too much "slang," I feel that his translation is effective in expressing the character's true sentiments, and it is tremendously easy to read. Story of the Stone is an unforgettable and awesome read that I highly recommend.
Rating:
Summary: A Creative Masterpiece
Review: Written in 1750, The Story of the Stone is an impressive and fascinating tale that incorporates otherworldly magic and mysticism with the saga of wealthy Jia family. The five-volume story chronicles the family's high-living glory days through their bitter decline, all the while immersing the reader in rich details of daily life in 18th century China. I completely agree with the following quote from the Times Higher Educational Supplement: "an astonishing book. It recreates a world that would otherwise be utterly lost." Anyone even mildly interested in Chinese history and culture will be enthralled by this glimpse into the privileged world of wealthy 18th century Chinese. Author Cao Xueqin was truly a creative genius - Story of the Stone is multi-faceted, multi-dimensional, and superbly crafted. While reading the first chapter of the first book (Dream of the Red Chamber), I was struck with how utterly clever and imaginative the story is. You will instantly be aware that you are reading something that has endured almost three hundred years for a very good reason. The story is populated with dozens of wonderfully three-dimensional characters - many of whom are woven in and out of the story making for a most interesting read. Most notable is the spoiled and curiously effeminate protagonist Jia Bao-yu, who possesses a special, magical item that I won't reveal here (don't want to spoil your enjoyment of the book!). All of the elements that make traditional Chinese literature such a joy to read are embodied in Story of the Stone. Elaborate settings, delicate verse, and traditional symbolism (with a healthy dose of humor and bawdiness) create a beautiful and riveting story that will keep you wanting more. I highly recommend reading the entire 5-book series. It is impressive that a work can stand the test of time as well as Story of the Stone has. David Hawkes' fine translation is excellent. Although some have criticized him for using too much "slang," I feel that his translation is effective in expressing the character's true sentiments, and it is tremendously easy to read. Story of the Stone is an unforgettable and awesome read that I highly recommend.
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