“I Deliver Parcels in Beijing”: Chinese literary sensation reaches U.S.

I Deliver Parcels in Beijing: Chinese Literary Sensation in the U.S.

Hu Anyan, a former courier, authored a bestselling memoir recounting the demanding realities of delivering packages in China. His book I Deliver Parcels in Beijing shares vivid anecdotes from his diverse work history, which spans 19 jobs across six Chinese cities, including bicycle sales, bakery work, architectural rendering, and night shifts in logistics warehouses.

At 46 years old, Hu uses a straightforward style infused with humor to narrate encounters with difficult managers, angry customers, and massive residential areas. His book, released in 2023, quickly gained popularity in China by highlighting the lives of countless couriers vital to the country's booming e-commerce sector, an industry often dismissive of individual workers.

Readers connected deeply with Hu's reflections on economic instability, limited social mobility, unemployment, and unsatisfying employment.

Insights and Translation

With the upcoming English edition translated by Jack Hargreaves, Hu discusses his literary path, the potential impact of automation on courier jobs, and what lessons he hopes the American audience will draw from his story.

Writing Origin

Hu began writing around 2009 while managing a women’s clothing store in Nanjing, a challenging role that inspired his authentic narrative.

“I was running a women’s clothing store in Nanjing, a painful job.”

The interview with Rest of World was edited for brevity and clarity.

Author’s summary: Hu Anyan’s memoir reveals the hardships behind China’s courier industry, blending personal stories with broader social themes and offering a vital perspective as the book reaches international readers.

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Rest of World Rest of World — 2025-11-04

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