The novel explores the complex and often tragic consequences of China's one-child policy through the life of Gugu, a midwife in a rural village. As she navigates her professional duties and personal beliefs, Gugu becomes both an enforcer and a victim of the policy, grappling with the ethical and emotional turmoil it brings. The story delves into themes of family, tradition, and the impact of government policies on individual lives, offering a poignant and multifaceted look at a turbulent period in Chinese history.
