For generations the Jia family is held in high esteem but when they lose favor with the emperor their luxury lifestyle comes to an end. The Story of the Stone focuses on internal and external conflicts that arise as they adjust to their unexpected plight. Jia Baoyu is heir to a prestigious family thats held multiple imperial titles throughout the years. Despite their history and social standing they are targeted by the emperor who strips them of their land and personal fortune. As the familys wealth wanes the young Jia struggles with his affection for his cousin Lin Daiyu as hes already engaged to Xue Baochai. Its a compelling romance drama set against the familys economic decline. Revered for centuries The Story of the Stone is one of the Four Classic Novels in Chinese literature. Its a depiction of premodern times that is both bleak and illuminating. Cao Xueqin delivers a piercing commentary on the duplicity of the social and political structure. With an eyecatching new cover and professionally typeset manuscript this edition of The Story of the Stone is both modern and readable.