Journey Into a Far Country

Journey Into A Far Country is a novel of love and prejudice in modern China. Thomas, a long-time foreign resident, discovers China through random travels, "living vignettes" that are circumscribed life experiences with no relation to the rest of his life until he is attacked on an isolated mountain in Sichuan Province. The consequences of the assault evolve as Thomas tries to defeat a vengeful policeman, be accepted into a Chinese family, and lay his Chinese alter ego, Lóng Mãn Róng (Dragon Full Glory), to rest. In successive roles as patient, prisoner, monk, farmer, bouncer, and gangster, Thomas encounters the dark side of modern Chinese society and himself. He also finds bravery, love, and wisdom within both, and learns about Chinese thinking, Daoism, and martial arts.