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Earnshaw Books, the Hong Kong-based publisher specializing in Chinese history and culture, has announced the release of Liliane Willens’ ‘Stateless in Shanghai’.
Facing persecution in their native Russia, Liliane Willens’ parents migrated to the International Settlement in Shanghai in the 1920s. After Russia revoked their citizenship, they became ‘stateless persons’ without a homeland. It is from this outsider’s perspective that Willens vividly recounts life as a privileged foreigner in an increasingly volatile China.
The author’s story uncovers the glamour and decadence of old Shanghai in contrast with the stark disparities between the Chinese population and European colonists. As Chiang Kai-Shek’s government crumbles, Willens recounts the suspense and turmoil of Japanese occupation and the Communist takeover.
“Willens’ incredible experiences and gifted storytelling help us to continue bringing our readers intimate and engaging perspectives on Chinese history,” said Earnshaw Books chief editor Derek Sandhaus. “It not only describes the past in vivid detail, but also helps readers to contextualize what China has become in the years since.”
‘Stateless in Shanghai’ is available online at EarnshawBooks.com and at selected bookstores in Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong and Singapore.
About the author: Liliane Willens was born in Shanghai to Russian Jewish refugees. In 1952, she moved to the US where she received her doctorate in French literature from Boston University. Now retired she gives lectures on China and on Old Shanghai.
About Earnshaw Books: Earnshaw Books is a Hong Kong-based publisher specializing in books about China, with occasional forays further afield.
Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/
