The Boy with the Jade - A historical novel from Charles Bush
About the Novel
In the opulent world of 18th-century China, where wealth and power reign supreme, The Boy with the Jade unveils the poignant tale of Baoyu, heir to the illustrious Jia family. Born with a jade pendant in his mouth—a symbol of his destiny—Baoyu's life is one of luxury laced with darkness.
Amidst his family's splendor, Baoyu navigates complex relationships. He shares a deep, intellectual connection with his cousin Daiyu and engages in intense liaisons with Amber, his main maid. Yet, these bonds are marred by mistreatment, deception, and overwhelming societal pressures.
Baoyu's life spirals after a severe beating from his father, Amber's death, and Daiyu's illness. His spirit breaks, plunging him into despair and leading to the loss of his jade pendant. Fate deals another blow when he's duped into marrying Baochai on the day Daiyu dies. Seeking enlightenment, Baoyu turns to Taoist and Buddhist philosophies, finding guidance from mystical mentors who help him reclaim his jade and hope.
With expectations to excel at the Imperial Examination and continue his lineage, Baoyu is trapped by tradition. Craving freedom, he makes a bold escape, embarking on a transformative journey.
Drawing inspiration from Hong Lou Meng, Bush's novel weaves a rich narrative of love, grief, and self-discovery. The Boy with the Jade explores the intricate human quest for meaning, transcending both time and culture.
“A fascinating historical novel with a young protagonist who admirably endures severe hardships. Bayou is a seeker and deep thinker who inspires pity with his moral flagellation while showing us that no one is immune to the caprices of fate.”
– Kirkus Reviews
Praise
“Charles Bush has taken the classic story of Dream of the Red Chamber and turned it into a free-flowing, natural thing that felt more like a river than a book. This is a novel I will never forget.”
– Jillian Forsberg, Author of The Rhino Keeper
“A deep dive into the head of one of the most iconic characters in Chinese fiction… A compelling interior focus on Baoyu’s journey, it offers a fascinating window into 18th-century Chinese high society.”
– Laurie Dennis, Author of The Lacquered Talisman
“A powerful, fresh take on Dream of the Red Mansions, filled with psychological drama and the vivid splendor of the Qing Dynasty's golden age.”
– Larry Feign, Author of The Flower Boat Girl
“Charles Bush’s lively reinterpretation, The Boy with the Jade, is a refreshing take, captivating from the start, offering readers a compelling, soap-opera-like portrayal of one of China’s most famous families.”
– Terese Tse Bartholomew, Curator Emeritus, Asian Art Museum of San Francisco, and author of Hidden Meanings in Chinese Art
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