It's the 1970s and cracks are starting to appear in the alliance between China and its Communist cohort Albania. When an Albanian steps on the foot of a Chinese diplomat the tension cranks up – couriers between Tirana and Beijing carry annotated x-rays of the foot back and forth. The Chinese intend to punish their interfering little ally discreetly.

But is the Sino-Albanian axis about to come adrift. This is Kadare’s surreal black comedy about the inner sanctums of political power and the mysterious causal chains that transform ordinary lives.

Why You Should Read?

• Kadare's surreal black comedy provides a unique lens into the inner workings of political power during a pivotal historical period.
• The novel explores the complex dynamics of the Sino-Albanian relationship, offering a fresh perspective on the Cold War era.
• The narrative transforms ordinary lives through mysterious causal chains, adding depth and intrigue to the story.
• The book's focus on the tensions between Albania and China provides readers with a lesser-explored historical context.

About the Author

Ismail Kadare is a celebrated Albanian novelist and poet, widely considered one of the most important writers of the 20th and 21st centuries. His work, translated into numerous languages, explores themes of totalitarianism, history, and identity, often through allegorical and surreal narratives. Kadare's literary contributions have earned him numerous international awards, including the inaugural Man Booker International Prize in 2005. He is known for his sharp wit, insightful social commentary, and masterful storytelling.