Zhang Yueran is a prominent Chinese writer and one of the most influential voices of the "post-'80s" generation. Known for her novels and short stories, she gained early recognition by winning first prize in the 2001 New Concept Composition Competition organized by Mengya magazine. Her published works include the novels "Red Shoes," "Ten Tales of Love," and "Oath Bird," the latter of which was named Best Long Novel in the 2006 Chinese Fiction Rankings. Her novel "Cocoon" achieved both critical and commercial success, selling over 120,000 copies in China and earning international acclaim, including nominations for the 2019 Best Foreign Book Prize in France and the Prix Transfuge Best Asian Novel award.
Zhang Yueran began writing at age 14 and has since cultivated a distinctive literary style marked by emotional depth and lyrical prose. Her works often explore themes of love, memory, and personal transformation, with notable short stories such as "The Fall of Pottery" and "Black Cat Doesn't Sleep" sparking significant discussion in China's youth literary circles. Educated in diverse fields—including English, law, computer science, and classical literature—her multidisciplinary background informs her nuanced storytelling. She has received numerous accolades, including the Singapore College Literary Award and the Shanghai Literature New Talent Competition prize.
Currently, Zhang Yueran serves as chief editor of Newwriting and teaches literature and creative writing at Renmin University. Recognized by Asymptote as one of 20 noteworthy Sinophone writers under 40, she continues to shape contemporary Chinese literature. Her contributions extend beyond writing through her editorial work on the thematic book series "Carp" and her academic engagements, solidifying her reputation as a leading literary figure.