Li Dongmei

My name is Li Dongmei. I was born in a rural village in Chongqing Province, China. Futian, the nearest town to the village, is about three hours away by foot. I finished middle school in Futian and then went to SISU (Sichuan International Studies University) to study English and American literature. I was the first student in my village to attend university. My grandfather was very proud of me, and said that all he ever wished was to be able to write his name. We had no TV but my grandfather was good at telling stories that were vivid and alive. My sisters and I were fascinated by all the characters and images in the stories he told, and it was these stories that motivated me to study literature. I became an English teacher in Futian middle school for four years. I loved being with my students but I felt that I wanted to try different things. I started a new career setting up kindergartens. I also started taking photos for the first time in my life and I felt very peaceful and satisfie...