1963 Pocket Books Cardinal Edition 21st printing Condition Good/fair- Good (G): Describes the average used worn book that has all pages or leaves present. Any defects should be noted by the seller. Mostly in good shape but there are a few holes near the spine, looks like it was caused by glue stuck to the pages (see photos) other defects include rubbing along edges and spine, creases and bending to cover. First few pages feel mildly loose otherwise binding is tight, clean text. DESCRIPTION This tells the poignant tale of a Chinese farmer and his family in old agrarian China. The humble Wang Lung glories in the soil he works, nurturing the land as it nurtures him and his family. Nearby, the nobles of the House of Hwang consider themselves above the land and its workers; but they will soon meet their own downfall. Hard times come upon Wang Lung and his family when flood and drought force them to seek work in the city. The working people riot, breaking into the homes of the rich and forcing them to flee. When Wang Lung shows mercy to one noble and is rewarded, he begins to rise in the world, even as the House of Hwang falls.