Set in years of frequent immigration when people found their lives turned upside down, the stories confront both the social complications of contemporary American life and the intensely personal struggle of people who find themselves in a strange and confusing environment and survive in their new society.

With the author's strong inclination to dramatic and unexpected conclusions, lyrical tragedies and sad optimism decorate all the stories of Pretend You Are Happy. These tales are warm and enriching stories of losses and recoveries, which cannot leave readers indifferent.