Canadian author Suzanne Ma reveals in her new book the struggle of Chinese immigrants in the West.[Photo provided by Marc Kuo]

In the book, readers follow Ye to many cities and towns across Italy.

"I hope this book will allow people to have an intimate and rare glimpse into the lives of Chinese immigrants," Ma says.

"My aim is to humanize the migrant narrative so people who hail from different corners of the world can find common ground and realize the importance of empathy."

Ma says that since the book was published in February, immigrants in many countries have contacted her, saying how much they identify with the tale she recounts.

"Ultimately, people go abroad in search of a better life. It is a good thing because it allows them to expand their worldview and to step out of their comfort zone. We can all learn a lot from immigrants. It takes courage and ingenuity to pick up and move somewhere new and come up with creative ways to survive and provide for yourself and your family."

An Italian translation of the book will be published in October, and Ma hopes a Chinese translation will follow so she can send a copy to Ye.

Peter Hessler, author of three acclaimed books on China, says in a book-jacket blurb that Meet Me in Venice is "a fascinating and human portrait of what life is like for young Chinese migrants in Europe. This is a book for anybody who knows what it's like to leave home".

Contact the writer at xingyi@chinadaily.com.cn

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