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 ... Read moredetailed 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.