Spring and Autumn Annals of Wu and Yue

“Milburn’s book is valuable for multiple reasons. It represents the best full translation of the text (not to mention the most sophisticated published analysis of its contents and history) in English. It is also outward-looking, persuasive in its claims that the Spring and Autumn Annals of Wu and Yue is an early novel that deserves to be appreciated alongside other works of world literature … Milburn’s translation of these oft-overlooked accounts is lively and accurate, the perfect vehicle for engaging new readers, reengaging old ones, and promoting early Chinese literature to a wider audience.” — H-Net Reviews (H-Asia)

“Milburn’s translation is extremely readable, and she accurately conveys the text’s meanings and nuances. Moreover, her introduction—a rich analysis that recounts the reception and textual history of the book—does not disappoint. Drawing on her prodigious knowledge of the Wu and Yue kingdoms and the historical works written on them, she sets forth a bold argument that immediately captures the imagination.” — Keith Knapp, The Citadel

Olivia Milburn is Professor in the School of Chinese at Hong Kong University. She is the author of The Empress in the Pepper Chamber: Zhao Feiyan in History and Fiction and Urbanization in Early and Medieval China: Gazetteers for the City of Suzhou. Her previous translations include Kingdoms in Peril, by Feng Menglong; The Spring and Autumn Annals of Master Yan; and The Glory of Yue: An Annotated Translation of the Yuejue shu.