"Six Records of a Floating Life," is an exotic, enjoyable read. The reason I found the book to be so interesting was because each chapter was centered on a theme. Shen Fu's autobiography did not progress in chronological order. Rather he organized specific events in a thematic format. I found it particularly interesting to see how events are told in one chapter, then retold in a different light in a consecutive chapter. Stories with different details provided distinctive insight into the most significant event in Shen Fu's life. For example, at the end of the first chapter, "The Joys of the Wedding Chamber," Shen Fu reveals that Yun's life would end prematurely by a lingering illness. Foreshadowing of Yun's death recurs many times throughout the story. However, it is not until the chapter titled "The Sorrows of Misfortune," when at last Shen Fu arrives at the moment of Yun's passing. I found myself imbedded in the details of Six Records of a Floating Life as Shen Fu unfolded his story piece by piece. Although Six Records of a Floating Life would not be the first book I would pick up when at Barnes and Noble, I am happy to say I enjoyed story. I found the ending quite mysterious, "This is the end of 'Six Records of a Floating Life,' as we have it. Virtually nothing is known of Shen Fu's life after the conclusion of this chapter" (144). Whoa cliff hanger! Perhaps he found love again. Perhaps he found a more fulfilling career. Perhaps he died a few months later. The world may never know. I also admired Shen Fu and Yun's ability to make a good time wherever they went. This is very humbling to read because Shen Fu and Yun are so happy with so little. People today are never seem to be satisfied with what they have. The problems Shen Fu and Yun face often tear modern day marriages apart. Shen Fe is unable to pass the exams to become a magistrate. Yun's health problems are expensive. Shen Fu loses his father's approval, thus financia