The Most Beautiful Face in the World

The Most Beautiful Face in the World contains two stories from noted Chinese author Xue Shu. The title story is an intricate look at the life of Ah Xing, a man who sees the world with his hands. Blind since birth, Ah Xing has a fully independent and comfortable life, until two women unexpectedly enter his world.


Keening, the second story in the collection, explores the ancient art of ritual wailing at funerals. Xiao Fengxiang, a former actress who reinvents herself as the most sought-after of keeners, is a bright light in a most unusual, yet revered, occupation.


Xue Shu's detailed observations provide a window onto city life in China. These two stories will draw you into today's world with its challenges and contradictions, hardships and triumphs.