> Skip to content
  • Published: 8 June 2018
  • ISBN: 9780734399496
  • Imprint: Penguin
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 106
  • RRP: $12.99

Petulia's Rouge Tin

Overnight, the remnants of her world filled with the scent of rouge powder lay out of reach, beyond the walls: Penguin Specials




China, early 1950s: Two friends find themselves on their way to a re-education camp for those not adhering to the standards of the new order – working girls, madams, misfits.

Who would have anticipated that Petulia, stripped of her silk gowns, would be forced to denounce the Red Delight Pavilion? Or believed that Autumn Grace would cry in desperation as nuns shave off her locks? After years working side-by-side, their sudden goodbye was the first sign of a changing society. Still, the scent of rouge filling their memories keeps them close, despite the twists and turns that life throws at them. Until one day, the promise of love and stability becomes a temptation neither can deny. . .

  • Published: 8 June 2018
  • ISBN: 9780734399496
  • Imprint: Penguin
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 106
  • RRP: $12.99

Other books in the series

About the author

Su Tong

Born in 1963 in Suzhou and now living in Beijing, Su Tong is one of China's most iconic bestselling authors, shooting to international fame in 1993 when Zhang Yimou's film of his novella collection Raise the Red Lantern was nominated for an Oscar. His first short story collection, Madwoman on the Bridge was published by Black Swan in 2008. The Boat to Redemption is his latest novel to become an instant phenomenon in China.

Also by Su Tong

See all

Praise for Petulia's Rouge Tin

Su Tong writes beautiful, dangerous prose

Meg Wolitzer, author, The Ten-Year Nap

Su Tong is an imaginative and skillful storyteller

New York Times