- Published: 1 March 2008
- ISBN: 9780099501473
- Imprint: Vintage
- Format: Paperback
- Pages: 368
- RRP: $24.99
A Concise Chinese-English Dictionary for Lovers

















- Published: 1 March 2008
- ISBN: 9780099501473
- Imprint: Vintage
- Format: Paperback
- Pages: 368
- RRP: $24.99
Written in deliberately bad English, this is a wonderful comic romance
Eileen Battersby, Irish Times
Guo uses her minimalist messed-up prose not just to tell an affecting coming-of-age story but to ask deep questions about the real differences between Chinese and British culture and language
Independent on Sunday
An uplifting novel with moments of great poignancy and pathos
Tatler
It is impossible not to be charmed by her matter-of-factness. As the story grows in complexity with Z's growing vocabulary - the narration acquires fluency and tenses almost imperceptibly - it is equally hard not to be impressed by Guo's vivacious talent
Sunday Times
A Concise Chinese-English Dictionary for Lovers is an intriguing, funny and unusual novel about what gets lost in translation
Herald
This is a troubling, humane, and emotionally provocative novel which possesses the unusual quality of forcing the reader to think
Irish Times
An utterly captivating, and disorientating, journey both through language and through love
Independent
Funny and charming...more than a love story; its psychology is politically acute, and things noted lightly in it linger in the mind
Guardian
Captivating, charming and bittersweet...the culture clash is beautifully drawn and utterly convincing...a memorable take on East meets West
Daily Express
A Concise Chinese-English Dictionary for Lovers is original, humorous and wise. Within imperfect language one can find many perfect truths for the human condition. The misunderstandings are really the understandings of the differences of the heart between men and women
Amy Tan