1932 Young Fu of the Upper Yangtze by Elizabeth Foreman Lewis Illustrated The John C. Winston Company

Young Fu of the Upper Yangtze by Elizabeth Foreman Lewis The John C. Winston Company, 1932, Philadelphia CONDITION: With scarce original jacket, tight binding, unmarked text, jacket has edge tears, covers have some edge wear. ATTRIBUTES: Illustrated edition. Hardcover. Bound in cloth over boards. DESCRIPTION: Elizabeth Foreman Lewis's "Young Fu of the Upper Yangtze" is a significant work in children's literature, offering readers a vivid portrayal of early 20th-century China through the eyes of a young protagonist. The narrative follows Young Fu, a country boy who moves to the bustling city of Chungking with his mother. This transition marks a pivotal period in his life as he embarks on an apprenticeship with a coppersmith, navigating the complexities and opportunities of urban life. The book explores themes of coming-of-age, cultural immersion, and the pursuit of fortune, providing insights into Chinese society and craftsmanship during that era. The author, Elizabeth Foreman Lewis, had a diverse background that informed her writing. Prior to her literary career, she engaged in various fields, including architectural designs for doll houses, railroad statistics, and institutional work. Her experiences extended to religious education both domestically and abroad. In 1917, Lewis moved to China, where she worked with the Mission Board in Shanghai and spent a year in the Szechuen province. This direct engagement with Chinese culture and society undoubtedly enriched her ability to craft an authentic and engaging story about Young Fu's experiences. "Young Fu of the Upper Yangtze" holds literary significance as it provides a window into a specific historical and cultural context for young readers. Its detailed depiction of Chungking and the coppersmith's trade, combined with the universal themes of growth and adaptation, make it a compelling narrative. Collectors of children's literature, particularly those interested in historical fiction or stories set in diverse cultural landscapes, would find this book appealing due to its acclaimed storytelling and its role in introducing young audiences to different ways of life and historical periods. The illustrations by Kurt Wiese further enhance the book's appeal, adding another layer of artistic value to the work. FLASHBACK TO 1932 WHEN THIS BOOK WAS PUBLISHED: When this book was published in 1932, the Great Depression tightened its grip globally, with widespread unemployment and Hoovervilles dotting the American landscape, while in Philadelphia, the Democratic National Convention nominated Franklin D. Roosevelt. Amidst this economic turmoil, the Japanese invasion of Manchuria escalated international tensions, and Amelia Earhart achieved a solo transatlantic flight, embodying a spirit of daring in a challenging era. Meanwhile, Aldous Huxley's *Brave New World* offered a chilling vision of the future, and the infant son of Charles Lindbergh was tragically kidnapped, dominating headlines. Location: 01-05-01-835