"Call to Arms" is a collection of short stories that vividly capture the impact of the socio-political upheaval during the early 20th century in China. The narratives delve into the lives of ordinary people, predominantly the peasantry and the lower classes, who are often caught in the throes of societal change and struggle for survival. Through a blend of realism and symbolism, the stories explore themes of tradition versus modernity, the human condition, and the quest for justice, reflecting the author's critical engagement with the national and cultural issues of his time.

This novel is a romantic, magical realism tale set in turn-of-the-century Mexico. It chronicles the life of Tita, the youngest daughter in a traditional Mexican family, who is forbidden to marry due to a family custom that mandates the youngest daughter must care for her mother until death. Tita falls in love with Pedro, who in turn marries her elder sister to stay close to her. The story is uniquely structured around the twelve months of the year, each beginning with a traditional Mexican recipe. The protagonist's emotions become infused with her cooking, leading to strange effects on those who consume her culinary creations.

The novel revolves around the life of a self-centered Mexican media mogul, Artemio Cruz, who is on his deathbed. As he reflects on his past, the narrative shifts between first, second, and third person perspectives, exploring different stages of Cruz's life from his impoverished childhood, his participation in the Mexican Revolution, his ruthless pursuit of power, and his eventual downfall. The book is a critique of the corruption and moral decay in Mexican society following the Revolution.

"The Underdogs" is a novel set during the Mexican Revolution, depicting the conflict from the perspective of the peasants who fought in it. The story follows the journey of a poor, illiterate Indian named Demetrio Macias, who becomes a reluctant leader in the rebellion against the federal government. The narrative explores the brutality and chaos of war, the corruption of power, and the often futile nature of rebellion, painting a grim picture of the human cost of revolution.

"Rickshaw Boy" is a novel about a young man living in Beijing in the 1920s who struggles to escape poverty and achieve personal independence. Despite his hard work and determination, he is continuously set back by societal and personal misfortunes, including failed business ventures, a disastrous marriage, and the loss of his rickshaw. The book serves as a critique of traditional Chinese society, illustrating the harsh realities of life for the working class during this time period.

"Cartucho And My Mother's Hands" is a poignant collection of vignettes that offer a child's perspective on the Mexican Revolution. Through a series of short, vivid sketches, the narrative captures the brutality and humanity of the conflict as witnessed by the young protagonist. The work is both a personal memoir and a tribute to the resilience of women, particularly the author's mother, whose strength and tenderness are symbolized by her hands. The book blends the innocence of childhood with the harsh realities of war, providing a unique and emotionally resonant account of historical events that shaped Mexico's national identity.

This novel tells the story of two teenage boys sent to a remote mountain village for re-education during China's Cultural Revolution. There, they meet a local tailor's daughter, who becomes their friend and the object of their shared affection. The boys discover a hidden suitcase filled with forbidden Western classics in Chinese translation, and their lives are forever changed. The books not only awaken their passion for literature, but also allow them to educate the Seamstress, ultimately leading to a heartbreaking love triangle and a tale of personal freedom against the odds.

This novel tells the story of Jesusa, a woman who experiences the Mexican Revolution, the Cristero War, and the development of the Institutional Revolutionary Party. Through her eyes, readers witness the struggles of poverty, the brutality of war, and the realities of a woman's life in early 20th century Mexico. The protagonist's life is filled with hardship, but she remains resilient, embodying the spirit of the Mexican people during a turbulent time in history.

"Cold Nights" is a poignant love story set in the backdrop of China's turbulent political climate during the 1940s. The narrative follows the protagonist, Wan Da, as he navigates through the hardships of life, love, illness, and death. As his wife, Zhenzhen, falls ill with tuberculosis, Wan Da's struggle to secure medical help for her amidst the chaos of war paints a vivid picture of human endurance and the power of love. The book also explores themes of existentialism and the human condition, offering a profound look at life's hardships and the strength of the human spirit.

"Teahouse" is a historical drama that explores 50 years of Chinese history (1898-1948) through the microcosm of a Beijing teahouse. The narrative follows the lives of the teahouse owner and his customers, reflecting the social changes, political turmoil, and cultural shifts of the time. The story provides a deep insight into the Chinese society, its traditions, and the impact of Western influence. It also highlights the struggle of the common people amidst corruption, oppression, and the collapse of traditional values.

This sprawling, complex novel is a rich tapestry of historical, philosophical, and literary references that explores the identity and culture of Latin America through a fantastical lens. Set primarily in 16th-century Spain during the reign of Philip II, the narrative weaves together the lives of historical figures and fictional characters, blending reality with myth and time travel. The story delves into themes of creation and destruction, the cyclical nature of history, and the quest for a utopian society, all while examining the consequences of colonialism and the search for a Latin American identity that reconciles its indigenous, African, and European heritage. The novel's intricate structure and dense prose challenge the reader to consider the past's impact on the present and future of a region with a tumultuous history.

"Heavy Wings" is a novel that explores the societal changes in China during the late 20th century. It follows the story of a group of innovative engineers striving to design and build China's first large-scale commercial aircraft. Despite facing numerous challenges such as lack of resources, political interference, and personal struggles, they remain committed to their mission, symbolizing the spirit of perseverance and innovation. The story is a reflection of China's journey towards modernization and technological advancement.

"The Nine Guardians" is a poignant novel set in the 1930s in Chiapas, Mexico, during the time of agrarian reforms under President Lázaro Cárdenas. Narrated from the perspective of a young girl from a landowning family, the story explores the profound social and cultural upheavals faced by both the indigenous people and the ruling class as land is redistributed. Through her eyes, readers experience the clash of cultures and the violent struggles over land rights, witnessing the impact of political change on personal and familial relationships. The novel delves deeply into themes of power, race, and identity, providing a rich, emotional, and historically grounded narrative.

"The Years with Laura Diaz" is a historical novel that centers around the life of a woman named Laura Diaz, a member of the Mexican upper class. The book explores the political and social changes in Mexico throughout the 20th century, as seen through Laura's eyes. Her journey includes a loveless marriage, a passionate affair, and a career as a photographer during the Mexican Revolution. The story weaves together personal, political, and cultural threads, creating a rich tapestry of Mexican history and the indomitable spirit of its women.

This novel provides a deeply personal account of the author's experiences during China's Cultural Revolution and his subsequent imprisonment in a labor camp. The protagonist struggles with the harsh realities of his imprisonment, including starvation and physical abuse, while also grappling with his own identity and the societal expectations of masculinity. His release and subsequent marriage only further complicate his quest for self-understanding, as he navigates the challenges of reintegrating into society and maintaining a relationship with a woman who has her own traumatic past.

"Love in a Fallen City" is a collection of novellas and short stories that delve into the complexities of love, betrayal, and societal expectations in mid-20th century China. The stories primarily focus on women navigating the challenging terrain of romance and marriage in a rapidly changing society. The titular story captures the tumultuous relationship between a divorced woman and a playboy against the backdrop of World War II, exploring themes of survival, traditional values, and personal transformation. Through elegant prose and deep psychological insight, the book portrays the collision of Eastern and Western cultures and the personal struggles of individuals caught in the throes of historical upheaval.

Set against the backdrop of a changing China from the late Qing Dynasty through the Cultural Revolution, the novel follows the life of Spring Moon, a young noblewoman of the Soong family. As she navigates the complexities of tradition and modernity, Spring Moon experiences personal tragedies and triumphs while witnessing the seismic shifts in Chinese society. Her story is one of love, loss, and resilience, reflecting the broader historical forces at play that reshape her country and her family's destiny. Through her eyes, readers experience the clash of old values with new ways, and the struggle to find harmony amidst chaos.

"In Search of Klingsor" is a historical novel that revolves around the pursuit of a mysterious Nazi scientist named Klingsor. The story is set during World War II and the Cold War, and follows two main characters, an American physicist and a Mexican mathematician, who are tasked with finding and identifying Klingsor. The novel uses real historical figures and events to explore themes of science, war, and morality, while also delving into the complex nature of truth and deception.

The novel is a harsh critique of the Chinese government's agricultural policy. Set in 1980s China, it tells the story of the farmers of Paradise County, who are encouraged by the government to plant garlic, only to find that the government can't or won't buy their crops, leading to violent protests. The narrative is centered around three characters - Gao Yang, who has been arrested for leading the protests; his blind father, Gao Ma, who continues to struggle with the garlic harvest; and Jinju, the woman both men love. The book is a powerful exploration of corruption, love, the human spirit, and the struggle for justice in an oppressive regime.

Set in 19th century China, the novel centers around the lifelong friendship of Lily and Snow Flower. Despite their different social classes, the two communicate through a secret language known as "nu shu" written on a fan. The story explores the rigid societal norms of the time, particularly the practice of foot binding and arranged marriages. As they navigate through the hardships of their lives, their friendship is tested, leading to a devastating betrayal that impacts their relationship.

The novel is a fictional memoir of a Chinese soldier who is captured during the Korean War and spends several years in American POW camps. He struggles to survive in the brutal conditions and navigate the political rivalries among the prisoners, while holding onto the hope of repatriation and the fear of being labeled a traitor by his own country. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, survival, and the human cost of war.

The book is a fantasy novel set in a world inspired by China's 20th century history. The protagonist, a war orphan, defies societal expectations by acing the empire-wide examination and earning a place at the prestigious military academy. However, her triumph is short-lived as she becomes embroiled in a violent conflict, which forces her to delve into the depths of her own magical abilities, inspired by shamanism. The story intertwines the brutal realities of war, mythology, and the exploration of power in a deeply divided society.

Set in Mexico during the early 20th century, this novel follows the tumultuous life of a young woman named Catalina Guzmán. From her arranged marriage to the abusive and philandering General Andrés Ascencio to her passionate affair with the revolutionary Carlos Vives, Catalina's journey is one of love, betrayal, and self-discovery. As she navigates through political turmoil and personal hardships, Catalina's strength and resilience are tested, ultimately leading her to make difficult choices that will shape her destiny. With vivid storytelling and vivid characters, this book explores themes of love, passion, and the pursuit of freedom in a time of social and political unrest.

The novel explores the complex and surreal journey of a disillusioned Spanish historian who, along with his estranged wife, her American lover, and a Mexican guide, embarks on a metaphysical road trip across Mexico. As they confront personal and collective histories, the characters grapple with themes of identity, betrayal, and the search for meaning amidst the ruins of the Aztec and Spanish empires. The narrative weaves together reality and fantasy, questioning the nature of truth and the possibility of genuine transformation in a world where past and present are inextricably intertwined.

Set in the 1930s during the Japanese occupation of Manchuria, the novel intertwines the lives of a young Chinese girl, a master of the ancient board game Go, and a Japanese soldier. As the girl seeks refuge from the turmoil of war in the strategy and beauty of Go, she encounters the soldier in the public square where they silently engage in a series of games. The board becomes a silent battleground reflecting their personal and political struggles. Their growing connection and the insights they gain into each other's cultures and vulnerabilities lead to a poignant and tragic conclusion, underscoring the senselessness of war and the transcendent power of human connection and empathy.