Chinarrative

Chinarrative explores diverse aspects of life in China through in-depth storytelling, touching on social issues, personal struggles, and cultural phenomena. Featuring first-person narratives and critical perspectives, it captures the complexities of Chinese society, including challenges in employment, healthcare, education, and personal freedoms.

Social Issues Personal Narratives Cultural Phenomena Employment Trends Healthcare Challenges Education System Personal Freedoms

The hottest Substack posts of Chinarrative

And their main takeaways

I Was Trafficked to Myanmar to Work as a Phone Scammer

235 implied HN points • 07 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics China
  1. The victim was lured under a false job advertisement to Myanmar and was forced to work in a phone scamming operation.
  2. The victim tried to contact his family for help, but faced severe consequences when caught, including being physically harmed.
  3. The victim's family had to pay a high ransom of 450,000 yuan to secure his release, showcasing the harsh reality and financial burden of human trafficking.

University Grads Flock to Food Delivery as China's Job Market Dries Up

216 implied HN points • 10 Dec 23
💼 Business Employment Industry Labor Market Economy Market Trends
  1. University graduates in China are turning to food delivery jobs due to a tough job market and economic situation.
  2. More educated individuals, including college graduates, are entering the food delivery sector, causing an oversupply of labor and decreasing salaries.
  3. The phenomenon reflects broader employment issues in China, showing a need for improved support from educational institutions and a larger, more diverse job market.

Qiqihar Gym Roof Collapse Leaves Thousands Mourning

78 implied HN points • 30 Jul 23
📰 News Tragedy
  1. The roof collapse at a school gym in Qiqihar, China, killed 11 people during a volleyball practice due to construction materials being piled illegally and waterlogged, leading to immense strain on the roof.
  2. The rescue effort in the aftermath involved hundreds of volunteers and professionals, facing challenges like debris, waterlogged perlite, and unknown locations of trapped individuals.
  3. The community mourned the loss of promising young athletes, with memories shared of the victims and tributes laid at the school gate for those who lost their lives.

They Tore My China Dream Down

176 implied HN points • 25 Apr 21
  1. The narrator's generation in China faced hardships and historical events like the Great Famine and Cultural Revolution.
  2. The narrator's dream of opening an antique shop was shattered when the government shut it down.
  3. The narrator reflects on a life of sacrifice and unfulfilled personal dreams due to societal expectations.

Finally, I Don't Have to Work Tomorrow

98 implied HN points • 07 Mar 21
  1. The extreme work culture at Chinese tech companies, like Pinduoduo, has drawn scrutiny for demanding "996" schedules and immense pressure on employees.
  2. Pinduoduo's core value of "benfen" promotes traits like honesty, diligence, and following strict rules, leading to a culture of intense work and scrutiny.
  3. Employees at Pinduoduo faced challenges such as working long hours, strict rules on breaks, and the pressure to conform to company values, which could result in severe consequences.
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Blue Hole: The Chinese Squid Fishermen Far From Home

78 implied HN points • 08 Oct 20
  1. Chinese squid fishermen face challenges of being far from home for extended periods of time
  2. Overfishing in the high seas has led to a sharp decline in squid production
  3. Generous subsidies from China contribute to the growth of the ocean fishing industry

Recollections of a Melamine Mom

176 implied HN points • 14 Aug 18
  1. 300,000 babies in China suffered kidney problems from melamine-contaminated formula.
  2. The melamine scandal caused severe health issues for a child, impacting the mother's career and family.
  3. Legal recourse was limited, leading to challenges in seeking compensation for the harm caused.

My Very 'Ordinary' Shanghainese Grandma

58 implied HN points • 17 Jan 21
  1. The author celebrates the extraordinary life and resilience of their 'ordinary' Shanghainese grandmother.
  2. The grandmother's story highlights the untold history of countless individuals whose experiences are often overlooked.
  3. Despite political disagreements and differing views, the author is grateful for the lessons, hope, and unconventional wisdom passed down from their grandmother.

Susu’s Three Choices

58 implied HN points • 29 Nov 20
  1. Susu's life as a full-time mother in the mountains is isolated and challenging.
  2. Becoming a mother meant Susu had to make sacrifices and faced financial dependency.
  3. Susu reflects on her past choices, opting for understanding over traditional expectations.

The Moon in a Dog’s Eye

137 implied HN points • 25 Oct 18
  1. The power of storytelling to overcome trauma and empower others.
  2. The challenges and experiences of a Chinese teenager navigating through the education system.
  3. The complexities and struggles of a school dropout finding a new path through alternative education.

Reunited at 40, Three Pals Await First Crush

98 implied HN points • 01 Feb 19
  1. The story highlights the lifelong friendship and evolving lives of three childhood pals born in 1978.
  2. The narrative captures the challenges and changes faced by the trio as they pursue their dreams and navigate personal relationships.
  3. Despite facing ups and downs, the friends reunite at 40 to embark on a new business venture, reminiscing over past memories and hopeful for a fresh start.

Witness to Divorce: A Chinese Judge's Perspective

98 implied HN points • 18 Jan 19
  1. The Chinese family court system is relatively new, with the first family court established in 2011.
  2. Judges may reject initial divorce filings for various reasons, including to allow time for reconciliation attempts.
  3. Family judges often act as listeners, therapists, and mediators, aiming to help couples make informed decisions while considering the well-being of all parties involved.

How The Great Gatsby Saved My Life

98 implied HN points • 16 Jul 18
  1. Facing challenges can lead to self-discovery and personal growth.
  2. Literature and books can inspire and provide solace in difficult times.
  3. Community and finding like-minded individuals can help in navigating tough situations.

The Avid Reader of Dongguan Library

39 implied HN points • 18 Aug 20
  1. Wu Guichun found solace and companionship in the Dongguan Library as a migrant worker living far from home.
  2. Reading and visiting the library helped Wu Guichun find balance and a sense of purpose in his difficult life.
  3. A heartfelt farewell letter to the library led to unexpected positive changes in Wu Guichun's life, showing the impact of small gestures.

I Am Chinese: Do You Hate Me?

39 implied HN points • 13 Apr 20
  1. President Trump's use of the term "Chinese virus" has led to discrimination against Chinese and Asian people
  2. In times of crisis, people often look for someone to blame for their suffering
  3. Understanding the pain and experiences of others is crucial in promoting empathy and combating hate

Sanitary Pads for Wuhan’s Female Medics

39 implied HN points • 22 Mar 20
  1. Volunteers collected and delivered sanitary products to female medics in Wuhan amid the coronavirus outbreak.
  2. Women's voices and needs, such as menstrual hygiene, were often overlooked and had to be actively addressed.
  3. The initiative #SistersFightEpidemic provided essential support, sparking a strong sense of unity and empowerment among volunteers and recipients.

The Man on Tower 47

39 implied HN points • 28 Dec 19
  1. Liu Liangsong has spent 25 years as a lonely forest watchman in China, covering 100,000 soccer fields of trees.
  2. His job involves surveying for fires, where precision is crucial, and loneliness is his biggest enemy.
  3. Despite contemplations of leaving, Liu remains dedicated to his job, guided by his mother's principles of persistence and generosity.

Life, Death of Suicide Chat Groups

58 implied HN points • 04 Nov 18
  1. The story discusses the rise of online suicide pact groups in China and the efforts of individuals like Hu Ming to prevent needless deaths.
  2. Hu Ming, after losing his son to suicide, infiltrated chat groups to offer counseling and intervention to members contemplating suicide.
  3. Through personal experiences shared in the story, it highlights the ethical dilemmas faced by publishers when sharing stories about suicide.

Chinese Teacher for Deaf Builds World Cup Squad, Part 2

39 implied HN points • 24 Oct 19
  1. A Chinese teacher for the deaf built a successful soccer team for deaf students in Guangdong.
  2. The soccer team faced challenges but overcame them through hard work, dedication, and unity.
  3. The success of the soccer team brought pride, recognition, and opportunities to the deaf players who had previous struggles.

Finally, I Don't Have to Work Tomorrow, Part 2

19 implied HN points • 21 Mar 21
  1. Employees at Pinduoduo faced immense pressure and long working hours, leading to a stressful work environment.
  2. Some employees experienced a lack of communication, privacy invasion, and distrust in the company.
  3. After leaving the intense work culture of Pinduoduo, individuals sought stability, work-life balance, and healthier work environments.

Death Row Inmate's Last Days

39 implied HN points • 29 Aug 19
  1. The life of a Chinese man on death row is narrated, shedding light on his experiences and behavior in the days leading up to his execution.
  2. The inmate's interactions with fellow prisoners, guards, and his own reflections paint a complex picture of his last days while awaiting execution.
  3. Despite his past crimes, the inmate's letters reveal his remorse, regret, and desire for his loved ones to lead better lives after his death.

The Loneliness of Living with Hemorrhoids, Part 1

39 implied HN points • 22 Mar 19
  1. The story highlights the challenges faced by a woman living with hemorrhoids since a young age.
  2. It showcases the loneliness and shame associated with dealing with a chronic medical condition.
  3. It also illustrates the importance of family support and dealing with personal struggles independently as an adult.

Chinese of Fifth Avenue: Why Chinese Are 'Over' Fifth Avenue

39 implied HN points • 15 Mar 19
  1. Chinese tourists find Fifth Avenue in New York City falls short of expectations
  2. Traditional American brands are losing appeal to Chinese shoppers with sophisticated tastes
  3. Some Chinese visitors prefer cultural attractions on Fifth Avenue over shopping

Why Northeasterners Love Their Bathhouses

39 implied HN points • 08 Mar 19
  1. Northeasterners in China enjoy bathhouses for socializing, relaxation, and communal activities.
  2. Bathhouses in Northeastern China offer luxurious amenities like pools, massages, and beauty treatments.
  3. The culture of bathhouses in Northeastern China reflects the region's warmth, sincerity, and openness.

When Midnight Homicide Strikes, Cup Noodles Must Wait

39 implied HN points • 22 Feb 19
  1. Criminal investigation brings unexpected twists at midnight.
  2. Attention to detail and teamwork are crucial in solving cases.
  3. Even amidst high-pressure situations, hunger and human needs can't be ignored.

NYC Migrant Recalls Fleeting Romance, Brush with Chinatown Underworld

39 implied HN points • 04 Jan 19
  1. A migrant in NYC recalled a fleeting romance with an illegal immigrant woman who had a troubled past.
  2. The migrant's involvement with the woman led to encounters with the Chinatown underworld, including a confrontation with a gangster.
  3. Ultimately, the migrant's relationship with the woman ended in heartbreak and mystery, with the woman disappearing back into the underworld.

Refugee Camp to Center Stage: Palestinian Rap Group's Journey

39 implied HN points • 21 Dec 18
  1. Palestinian rap group Saaleek emerged from a refugee camp, facing challenges of poverty and safety.
  2. Saaleek's music extends beyond politics to resonate with oppressed people everywhere.
  3. Youth in Palestine have a growing passion for rap, using the genre to express local experiences.

Hu Line: A Journey Through China's Heartland + The Future of Chinarrative

19 implied HN points • 21 Jul 20
  1. The Hu Line in China represents an economic and cultural divide between the eastern and western parts of the country.
  2. Chinarrative shares long-form nonfiction stories from and about China to amplify Chinese voices.
  3. Chinarrative is seeking reader support to maintain a regular publishing schedule and continue showcasing stories about China.

School Dropout Do-over

39 implied HN points • 14 Sep 18
  1. A Chinese teenager faced difficulties and abuse in the public school system, eventually being removed by his brother for alternative learning.
  2. The older brother, who worked in innovative education, advocated for his brother's withdrawal from conventional schooling due to the harmful environment.
  3. The story highlights the importance of family support and finding alternative educational paths for students facing challenges in the traditional system.

Horns of a Dilemma: Chinese Diaspora's Covid-19 Conundrum

19 implied HN points • 31 May 20
  1. Chinese nationals returning to China face challenges and discrimination related to Covid-19.
  2. Racism and prejudice against Chinese individuals living overseas have been exposed and escalated during the pandemic.
  3. Social media has played a significant role in fueling hatred and cyberbullying towards Chinese diaspora members, creating additional challenges.

The Struggles of a Chinese Stay-at-Home Dad

19 implied HN points • 03 May 20
  1. A Chinese stay-at-home dad faces challenges managing expenses and handling household responsibilities in Shanghai.
  2. Gender roles are being challenged as the stay-at-home dad navigates parenting and deals with societal pressure.
  3. Despite struggles, the dad finds fulfillment in spending quality time with his son and cherishes the moments they share.

Two Gay Chinese Dads. One Long and Winding Trip to Fatherhood

19 implied HN points • 02 Mar 20
  1. Gay Chinese couples face challenges in starting families due to social norms in China.
  2. Surrogacy provides a way for gay Chinese men to become parents, even if it involves travel and significant expenses.
  3. Some parents in China push their gay sons to pursue surrogacy in order to have grandchildren and maintain family honor.

Dispatches From Hubei: Two Weeks Between Life and Death

19 implied HN points • 01 Feb 20
  1. Chen Yong faced a heartbreaking battle to save his wife from pneumonia in the midst of the Wuhan coronavirus outbreak.
  2. Despite efforts to raise funds and seek the best medical care, Chen's wife succumbed to the illness.
  3. Chen's emotional journey highlights the devastating impact of the epidemic on families and the challenges they face in seeking treatment.

On the Road with a Chinese Trucker

19 implied HN points • 17 Jan 20
  1. Truckers in China face physical and mental tolls due to long-haul driving.
  2. Truckers use various methods to combat fatigue, like smoking, betel nuts, and even drugs.
  3. Truckers deal with risks and challenges such as thieves, accidents, fines, and police checks on the roads.

Life as a Single Dad in China, Part 2

19 implied HN points • 08 Dec 19
  1. The story provides insights into the life of a single dad in China, highlighting the challenges and joys of raising a child post-divorce.
  2. The father prioritizes his son's well-being and puts in effort to maintain a strong relationship despite the divorce.
  3. The father finds ways to cope with his emotions through running, spending time with close friends, and spontaneous backpacking trips.

Life as a Single Dad in China, Part 1

19 implied HN points • 24 Nov 19
  1. The article discusses the experiences of single fathers in China, highlighting their struggles and efforts in raising their children alone.
  2. The stories shared depict the challenges faced by single fathers in aspects such as financial struggles, worries about children's well-being, and difficulties in balancing work and family life.
  3. These single fathers express love and concern for their children, acknowledging their mistakes and reflecting on ways to improve their relationships, while also discussing their hopes for their children's futures.

The Stories of China’s First Top Models

19 implied HN points • 07 Nov 19
  1. The emergence of China's first top models in the 1980s brought glamour and novelty but also struggles and stigmatization.
  2. The models trained rigorously, faced hurdles in a changing China, and grappled with the complexities of the fashion industry.
  3. Their lives post-modeling showed varied paths, blending elements of hope, heartbreak, and eventual distancing from their earlier successes.

Chinese Teacher for Deaf Builds World Cup Squad, Part 1

19 implied HN points • 21 Sep 19
  1. A Chinese teacher for the deaf built a successful soccer team through perseverance and coaching.
  2. The team faced challenges due to its members' disabilities, but overcame them with determination and hard work.
  3. The team's passion for the game and never-give-up mentality led to success and recognition in national competitions.

The Darkness after the Fire

19 implied HN points • 28 Jul 19
  1. The survivors of the forest fire in China struggled with accepting the death of their colleagues and faced psychological trauma.
  2. Firefighters experienced emotional and mental difficulties after the tragic incident, with intrusive memories and nightmares impacting their well-being.
  3. Aside from physical wounds, the firefighters and local residents also dealt with emotional scars and fears from the traumatic event, requiring psychological support and intervention.

Diary of a 63-Year-Old Transvestite

19 implied HN points • 23 Jun 19
  1. Liu Peilin, a 63-year-old transvestite, got his first white dress from a trash can and became an internet celebrity.
  2. A campaign to raise funds for Liu was successful, bringing in more than 10 times the intended amount.
  3. Liu's diary entries shed light on his journey of self-expression, challenges, and resilience in transitioning to living authentically as a woman.