Released in Vietnam by Chibooks, with a translation by Trung Nghia, the novel centers on the story of chef Liu Jump-Vault losing his handbag. While searching for his own bag, he discovers another, which contains secrets linked to the lives and careers of several figures from elite circles.
Liu Jump-Vault immediately becomes a hunted target, like a lamb straying into a wolf pack. His unexpected entry into the elite world triggers a myriad of comical situations, unveiling various facets of ordinary life: from the director's jealous wife and a singer fabricating scandals for attention, to a husband being 'cuckolded'.
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The cover of "I am Liu Jump-Vault". Photo: Chibooks.
The novel debuted in China in November 2007, selling 40,000 copies within the first two months. It was later adapted into an eponymous film, directed by Ma Liwen, starring Qin Haili, Li Yixiang, and Gao Qunshu.
Liu Zhenyun narrates with a humorous yet tranquil writing style, reflecting his unique approach. The humor in his writing is not merely for amusement; it serves as a means of perceiving reality and awakening humanity. His language is simple and relatable, yet it conveys a philosophy of human dignity.
Liu Zhenyun, at age 67, was born in Yanxin County, Henan Province, and is a former high school teacher. He began his writing career in 1982 and is a prominent figure of new realism in Chinese literature.
His prominent short stories and novels include: Thap Pho, Tan Binh Lien, Long Ga Khap Dat, Quan Nhan, Hoa Vang Co Huong, Mi Que Va Hoa, Toi La Luu Nhay Vot, Mot Cau Choi Van Cau, Toi Khong Phai La Phan Kim Lien, and Nhung Dua Tre Cua Thoi Dai Hong Chuyen. His works have been translated into over 20 languages, including English, French, Vietnamese, Japanese, German, and Korean.
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Writer Liu Zhenyun in TP HCM in late October. Photo: Chibooks.
In late October, Liu Zhenyun participated in seminars within the first Vietnam-China Literary Exchange program. Liu Zhenyun believes literature cannot change the world, nor does he write with such a goal. However, literature can transform human souls and destinies. He once encountered a shipper carrying his book, Mot Cau Choi Van Cau, seeking an autograph. Liu asked why a busy delivery person still found time to read. The shipper explained that he read during waits between orders. Despite a challenging life, he found motivation and empathy with the characters in the book. "At that moment," he stated, "I understood the power of literature: to help people find hope and motivation in life."
Nhu Anh
