Les tribulations d'un chinois en Chine

A lively tableau opens the story with a round‑table of eccentric diners debating the nature of good and bad in life, their chatter punctuated by quirky details—a shark fin, sweet water‑lily roots, and a glass of warm wine. Their banter, led by a stoic host whose only reply is a dismissive “Peuh!”, sets a tone of playful philosophical sparring that threads through the narrative.

Against this backdrop, the curious figure of Kin‑Fo emerges, a Chinese gentleman whose adventures begin with a puzzling, overdue letter and a series of odd encounters across bustling cities and remote outposts. As he navigates a world of curious customs, enigmatic officials, and unexpected companions, the novel blends humor with a gentle critique of cultural pretensions, inviting listeners to wander through vibrant streets while pondering the absurdities of everyday wisdom.