"The news that our district was to be visited by a celebrated actor had spread throughout the mountain area of Phoenix of the Sky."

"Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress", by Dai Sijie.

Dai Sijie, a Chinese-born filmmaker and author, wrote Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress, a semi-autobiographical novel inspired by his own experiences during China's Cultural Revolution. The story explores the transformative power of literature through the journey of two young men who discover forbidden Western books in a remote mountain village.

Bookends of Brilliance is an engaging podcast series exploring the art and impact of literary openings and closings. Just as a symphony's first note sets the tone for a musical journey, the initial words of a story immerse us in its essence. Each episode delves into these magical beginnings, revealing how they encapsulate themes and transport readers to unique worlds.

Conversely, the series celebrates the power of closing lines – those words that resonate long after the book ends. These sentences often hold profound moments, leaving a lasting impact. 
Join us as we uncover the craft and beauty of literary openings and closings, enriching your appreciation for the enduring power of words. Whether you're a lifelong book lover or a casual reader, this series promises to enhance your understanding of literary art. 

Now available as eBooks on Amazon Kindle: Dive into Part 1 and Part 2!