Li Juan (author)

Li Juan (李娟, born 1979) is a contemporary Chinese essayist and travel writer renowned for her lyrical and intimate depictions of life in the remote regions of Xinjiang, China, particularly the Altai Mountains. Her writing is characterized by its vivid descriptions of the natural world, its exploration of the lives and cultures of the Kazakh nomads, and its honest and often humorous portrayal of her own experiences living and working alongside them.

Born in Xinjiang, Li Juan spent much of her youth living and working in the Altai region. She has held various jobs, including working as a seamstress, a shop assistant, and a waitress. These experiences have deeply informed her writing, providing her with a unique perspective on the everyday lives of the people she writes about.

Li Juan's works have been widely translated and have gained international recognition for their literary merit and their insights into a relatively unknown part of China. Her most prominent works include:

• To the Altai Mountains (我的阿勒泰, 2010): A collection of essays detailing her experiences working in a small shop in the Altai Mountains. This work is considered her breakout piece and established her as a significant voice in Chinese literature.

• Far Away, Elsewhere (阿勒泰的角落, 2010): Another collection of essays exploring life in the Altai region, focusing on her interactions with the local community.

• Winter Pasture (冬牧场, 2011): A detailed account of a winter spent with a Kazakh family as they moved their livestock to a winter pasture in the Altai Mountains. This book is particularly noted for its vivid descriptions of the harsh winter landscape and the resilience of the Kazakh nomads.

Li Juan's writing style is often described as poetic and evocative, drawing readers into the landscapes and lives she portrays. She is considered a significant figure in contemporary Chinese literature, offering a unique and valuable perspective on life in rural Xinjiang.