Auntie Mei's carefully constructed emotional detachment is shattered by her latest assignment. She has dedicated her life to caring for newborns and their mothers, moving from family to family with practiced efficiency. However, the hundred and thirty-second baby and his mother, Chanel, present a unique challenge, forcing Auntie Mei to confront a crisis that threatens her resolute detachment and the very foundation of her solitary existence.

This collection of short stories has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Sunday Times EFG Short Story Prize, indicating a strong reception within literary circles. Reviewers have often highlighted Yiyun Li's nuanced prose and her ability to capture profound emotional depth within concise narratives. The stories are frequently praised for their exploration of human connection, isolation, and the quiet struggles of ordinary lives. The collection is seen as a testament to Li's skill in crafting resonant and thought-provoking tales that linger with the reader.