Quick Summary of the Core Content
This book, which was originally aimed at a niche audience of academic researchers interested in the medical history of the Anti-Japanese War, became an unexpected bestseller at the 2026 Shanghai Book Fair. It sold out within a week of its release, prompting the publisher to urgently print more copies. Instead of following the traditional approach of focusing on famous figures and major battles in historical books, it delves into the unique ecosystem in Chongqing during the war—where three medical systems (shamanism, traditional Chinese medicine, and Western medicine) coexisted. By highlighting lesser-known details about the lives of women, grassroots governance, and the choices made by ordinary people, the book has broken the industry stereotype that serious academic works cannot sell well.
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Detailed Analysis
1. The Underlying Reason Why a Less Well-Known Academic Book Became a Bestseller: It Met the Current Readers' Desire for “Anti-Routine” Reading
In the past, serious works on urban or medical history were primarily targeted at teachers and students in related fields at universities. Selling 3,000 copies in the first printing was considered a success, and selling 10,000 copies was a miracle. However, this book sold out immediately because readers are no longer interested in historical content that is full of empty slogans and grand narratives. They don’t want to just learn that Chongqing was the wartime capital of the Anti-Japanese War; they want to understand how ordinary people living in the towns there survived under constant bombing, faced food shortages, and raised their children. This book fills that gap by telling the real stories of ordinary people in difficult situations, making it relatable and compelling.
2. Historical Details That Challenge Common Beliefs: People in Chongqing During the War Didn’t Rely on “Political Correctness” – They Were Practical
Many people think that the belief in shamanism among the common people in the old society was a sign of ignorance. But this book shows that wasn’t the case. Western medicine was new in China, and penicillin was more expensive than gold; there were few qualified doctors in the towns, and traditional Chinese medicine was also scarce. In such a situation, people turned to shamanism, which was accessible with just a few coins or even some eggs. Shamanists were more like part-time psychologists and community mediators. They provided comfort and explanations for difficult situations that hospitals couldn’t address. Interestingly, most shamanists were women, and their stalls were places where women who stayed behind in the villages could socialize, exchange information about battles and where to buy cheap food. When someone was seriously injured, people would naturally turn to Western doctors for penicillin.
3. The Presence of Shamanists Revealed the Complete Failure of the National Government’s Grassroots Governance
The example of the air battle in Bishan is particularly illustrative: When Japanese planes attacked and a Nationalist pilot parachuted into the countryside, the local chief, who received a salary from the government, didn’t know what to do. It was the local gang leaders who stepped in to help, organizing the rescue efforts. This shows that the Nationalist government’s authority barely extended to the villages. Although there were formal organizations in place, it was actually local gangs that handled everyday affairs. When the government tried to ban shamanism, it was ineffective because people had no other place to turn for support in times of crisis. Without enough hospitals and doctors, the so-called “scientific modernization” couldn’t be imposed from above.
4. This Book’s Success Shows a Path for Serious Content to Break Boundaries: Treat Readers as Equals to Generate Engagement
Many academic authors write in a condescending manner, treating readers as if they are students. But the author, Wu Xiaolu, who comes from Chongqing and has lived in Taiwan and Australia, understands that religious practices were a form of spiritual support for ordinary people in difficult times. Her approach makes the book appealing to readers of all ages and regions. By treating readers with respect and empathy, she has created a work that resonates with a universal sentiment.
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In summary, this book’s success demonstrates that serious academic content can break through barriers and attract a wide audience by engaging with readers on a more personal and relatable level, rather than relying on grand narratives or a superior tone.