The Story

官場現形記 (which translates to "The Bureaucrats Exposed") doesn't follow one hero. Instead, it's a series of connected stories that paint a huge picture. We meet all kinds of characters: the low-level clerk desperate for a promotion, the corrupt governor filling his pockets, the idealistic scholar who gets his spirit crushed. The plot moves from one government office to another, showing how deals are made, favors are traded, and public duty often comes last. There's no single villain to defeat; the problem is the game itself.

Why You Should Read It

I picked this up thinking it would feel like homework, but I was hooked. Li Boyuan writes with a sharp, witty voice that doesn't pull punches. He's angry at the corruption he saw, but he presents it through absurd situations and flawed characters you can't look away from. What stuck with me wasn't just the history, but the human behavior. The petty jealousies, the fear of losing face, the rationalizations for doing bad things—it all feels timeless. It's a masterclass in showing how systems shape people, for better or (usually) worse.

Final Verdict

Perfect for readers who love character-driven historical fiction or sharp political satire. If you enjoyed the bureaucratic humor in something like The Good Soldier Švejk or the societal portraits in classic novels, you'll find a lot here. It's also a fantastic, human-level entry point into a pivotal moment in Chinese history. Just be ready—it's a mirror held up to power, and the reflection isn't always pretty.