June discussion - "Vagabonds" by Hao Jingfang

## Details

Our book for June 2025 is Vagabonds, by Chinese science fiction writer Hao Jingfang. Vagabonds is Hao's first novel and was shortlisted for the 2021 Arthur C. Clarke Award. Hao has also written several short stories and won a Hugo Award for best Novelette in 2016. She is the first Chinese woman to win a Hugo Award.

In 2096, the war of independence erupts when a colony of people living on Mars rebels against Earth’s rule. The war results in two different and mutually incompatible worlds. In 2196, one hundred years later, Earth and Mars attempt to initiate a dialogue, hoping a reconciliation is on the horizon. Representing Mars, a group of young delegates is sent to Earth to study the history and culture of the rival planet, all while teaching others about life on Mars.

Narrated from two perspectives: Luo Ying, an eighteen-year-old girl from Mars who has spent the past five years on Earth, and Ignacio, a filmmaker in his late twenties from Earth on a job to document the delegates from Mars. Both Luo and Ignacio are trapped between worlds, with critics all around, and always under suspicion, searching for where they truly belong.

This month’s discussion will be held at commaa in Sheung Wan on the 22st of June @ 2:00 pm. Please note: the café asks that for large groups, guests buy at least one beverage per person ($60 minimum). They have a selection of coffees, teas, and other drinks available for purchase.
After the discussion, we will choose the next book by group vote. Please bring your suggestions for future books!