documentary· Mongolia
The Story of the Weeping Camel
by Byambasuren DavaaAggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 2003Mongolian
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Published in 2003, The Story of the Weeping Camel established Byambasuren Davaa as one of the defining voices in documentary. Originally a documentary film, this story was adapted into a book that captures the unique cultural practices of Mongolian nomads. It tells the tale of a family dealing with the birth of a rare white camel calf and the subsequent challenges they face. The book highlights the deep connection between humans and animals, and the traditional rituals that bind them. Themes of human-animal bond, cultural rituals, family run through the work.
Book Details
Country of Origin
🇲🇳 Mongolia
This book is part of Mongolia's rich literary tradition.
Explore books from Mongolia →Editorial Assessment
Byambasuren Davaa published The Story of the Weeping Camel in 2003, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of documentary from Mongolia. The book's treatment of human-animal bond, cultural rituals, family, tradition accounts for much of its enduring reputation.
The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Its aggregate editorial score of 30/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals.
The appeal of The Story of the Weeping Camel lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of human-animal bond, cultural rituals, family, tradition is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page.
Within Mongolia's literary landscape, Byambasuren Davaa occupies a significant position. The Story of the Weeping Camel is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.
Awards & Recognition
BBC Big Read
notable · global
20040
Byambasuren Davaa is a Mongolia author whose work in documentary has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.
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