The Palest Ink

"The Palest Ink" is a prequel set during China's Cultural Revolution, following the coming-of-age of Benfu, a sheltered son from an intellectual family in Shanghai, and his best friend Pony Boy, who hails from a lower-class background. As political upheaval and violence unfold across the country, both characters face difficult choices about family, friendship, loyalty, and courage in a time of chaos. The story explores their personal journeys amidst one of the most turbulent periods in Chinese history.