Alec Ash

wish lanterns

Wish Lanterns

A narrative, literary nonfiction exploration of China's transformative young generation, following the lives of six young Chinese as they struggle to build a future for themselves and their country, including an aspiring rockstar called Lucifer and a Party official's daughter.

A BBC Radio 4 Book of the Week

Publisher: Picador (2016)

while we're here

While We're Here (co-editor)

An anthology from the Anthill writers' colony, a mix of nonfiction, fiction and poetry, edited by Alec Ash and Tom Pellman, delving deep into the experience of being a foreigner in China. Ash's chapter is about his hutong neighbours in Beijing.

With contributions from David Moser and Kaiser Kuo

Publisher: Earnshaw Books (2015)

chinese characters

Chinese Characters (contributor)

A book of reportage focusing on the human stories behind China's phenomenal growth and social change, also featuring Peter Hessler, Evan Osnos and Ian Johnson. Ash's chapter is about a young Tibetan caught between two worlds.

With a forward by Pankaj Mishra

Publisher: University of California Press (2012)

cover

A BBC Book of the Week

"A talented young observer of today’s China" – Peter Hessler

"Lyrical ... a telling portrait" – Washington Post

"Alive with the full complications of truth" – Evan Osnos

"Compelling and beautifully written" – Prospect