Book introduction

(Baonghean) - In front of the market gate, the bookseller was enthusiastically introducing his new book "Summer at the Beach," with its gaudy green and red cover:

"Buy it, boy! The new school year is about to start, and you won't have time to read anymore," he said to the student. "This book is excellent! You've read 'The Adventures of the Cricket' by To Hoai, haven't you? You've read it many times, haven't you? The main character in this book is a sea crab, and its adventure is just as thrilling and captivating."

The boy looked at the price, hesitated, and walked away.

A well-dressed man arrived on a gleaming bicycle. The bookseller, gesturing with a new book in front of his nose, enthusiastically said:

- This book is selling like hotcakes, buy it quickly before it's gone. You're a businessman, aren't you? This is the handbook for those who want to get rich. The business secrets of a hotel owner during the beach tourism season.

The customer flipped through a few pages and then returned it.

- You're kidding me, right? That book is nonsense; it doesn't talk about business or trading at all. I need a different book...

Next came the student, wearing a wide-brimmed straw hat, her bright red fingernails constantly fiddling with the book cover.

The bookseller gazed at the girl, his voice sweet and sugary:

- It's a modern-day love triangle, ma'am. A dramatic and suspenseful romance set by the sea. It's incredibly captivating; you can read it straight through without getting bored. I heard it was a finalist in a novel competition. And it only costs 120,000 dong, practically free.

The student opened her wallet, counted the money repeatedly, and realized she was short. She then quietly turned away, looking regretful.

The retired old man, returning home after doing some Tai Chi, strolled along, badminton racket in hand.

"Here's a new book for you, Grandpa," the bookseller said, handing over "Summer at the Beach" with both hands. "It's not a love story, Grandpa. It's a science textbook about the benefits of sun and seawater for the health of the elderly. It'll be perfect to add to your personal bookshelf. It'll only cost a few days' salary."

The old man squinted at the book cover depicting a scantily clad girl, and chuckled:

- If I bring this book home, my wife will kick me out and make me eat at a cheap restaurant.

Feeling down, a thin, shabbily dressed man approached and asked:

- Are beachwear items selling well in the summer, sir?

- Run away, you idiot. You're writing nonsense. Neither romance nor politics, a bit of half-baked science, a bit of fraudulent business. It's pure rubbish. If you want to buy, I can sell you a whole bunch right now. And who are you to ask about buying and selling?

- I am the author of "Summer at the Beach." This is a crime story, not a love story, a science book, or a business book. And you should have read it before introducing me!

- Sorry, author! This profession requires catering to readers' tastes to even have a chance of survival...

Quynh Tho