Heart Sutra is a wryly humorous and deeply moving novel by Yan Lianke that delves into the interplay of modernity, tradition, and the struggle for personal expression. Set in the Religious Training Center on Beijing’s National Politics University campus, the story brings together disciples from Buddhism, Daoism, Protestantism, Catholicism, and Islam for a year of intensive study. Amidst this diverse environment, Yahui, a Buddhist jade nun, and Gu Mingzheng, a Daoist master, form a connection that challenges their beliefs and affiliations.

Why You Should Read Heart Sutra

• A Unique Exploration of Faith and Modernity: The novel uniquely blends themes of religion, personal discovery, and societal corruption within a contemporary Chinese setting.
• Rich Character Dynamics: Follow the compelling journey of Yahui and Gu Mingzheng as they navigate love, faith, and moral dilemmas.
• Insight into Cultural Diversity: Gain an understanding of the coexistence and conflicts among China's five major religions.
• Yan Lianke's Signature Storytelling: Experience the author’s incisive humour and poignant narrative style, complemented by beautiful original papercut illustrations.
• Thought-Provoking Themes: Reflect on the costs of division and the essence of belief in both personal and societal contexts.

Heart Sutra is not just a story; it's an evocative exploration of humanity’s enduring questions about faith, identity, and the complexities of the modern world.