Salad Days: Vol. 1

Salad Days #1

by Jing Shui Bian, 静水边 木更, Via Lactea (Translator)

Warm and gentle, dreams and growth, life and love.
A love story between a village boy and a city boy, chasing their dreams of becoming a dancer and a boxer.

This is a story about a poor but gentle, honest ballet boy and a passionate, determined boxing boy. The two met at the Children’s Center, and since then, they’ve grown up supporting each other—even in the face of hardships and challenges—as they resolutely pursue their dreams.
The beauty of salad days lies in the sweat from struggles and the nurturing of friendships. Even though the two have completely different lives, what remains the same is their warm feelings for each other…

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, LGBT, Manga, Light Novel, Friends To Lovers, Fiction

288 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 28, 2021

About the author

Associated Names:
* Jing Shui Bian (English)
* 靜水邊 (Traditional Chinese)
* 静水边 (Simplified Chinese)
* จิ้งสุ่ยเปียน (Thai)

Other Pen Names:
* Mu Geng Mu Geng (English)
* 木更木更 (Chinese)
* มู่เกิงมู่เกิง (Thai)

Reviews

[Alexia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was charming and fluffy, truly capturing the essence of a slice-of-life narrative that never fails to bring a smile to my face. The author created a wonderfully relaxing vibe that makes you feel at home within the pages. The setting, a charming little village bustling with warmth and camaraderie, adds to the story's inviting atmosphere. Neighbors genuinely care for one another, fostering a sense of community that is both heartwarming and uplifting.

Although the plot doesn’t twist and turn with intense drama, the story holds your attention effortlessly. We follow the protagonist and a delightful cast of side characters as they navigate their childhood dreams with determination and joy. It's uplifting to see how they support each other, creating an environment filled with encouragement and motivation.

The romance woven through this tale is simply delightful. Jiang Shen, a passionate ballet dancer, and Bai Jinyi, a dedicated boxer, are both intrigued by one another from the start. Their initial curiosity blossoms into a beautiful friendship as they gradually unveil the layers of each other's lives. I particularly appreciated the thoughtful portrayal of their relationship; despite Bai Jinyi's affluent background and Jiang Shen's more modest upbringing, the author skillfully crafts their interactions with a sense of mutual respect and admiration, steering clear of any power imbalances.

This volume primarily focuses on their childhood, showcasing the subtle yet significant moments where crushes begin to bloom between them. Their exchanges are endearingly cute, filled with little gestures that highlight their burgeoning affections. They share thoughtful gifts and maintain frequent phone calls, showcasing a blossoming connection. I loved how Bai Jinyi, using his financial means, goes out of his way to offer Jiang Shen support, while Jiang Shen reciprocates with homemade food and even a small chick for Bai Jinyi to raise, symbolizing their growing bond.

In conclusion, this story is sweet, charming, and delightfully fluffy. It manages to encapsulate the innocence of first crushes and the significance of friendship. I am eagerly looking forward to the second volume, where I hope to see their romance continue to develop and flourish.

[aria ✧ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Salad Days:
a shakespearean idiomatic expression meaning a youthful time, accompanied by the inexperience, enthusiasm, idealism, innocence, or indiscretion that one associates with a young person.

Salad Days tells the story of ordinary people living ordinary lives, chasing their dreams and supporting each other through it all. Jiang Shen has lived in his little farm all his life with occasional visits to the city. He has his friends: the siblings Chen Maoxiu (nicknamed Goumao) and Chen Qingling, and Shen Shubao. They chase chickens, hunt fish and borrow books from old man Xue Jun. It’s a simple life but it's a happy one.

One day, little Jiang Shen follows his mother to the city to sell her goods. They stop at a Children’s Centre and there Jiang Shen watches a group of girls dance. When the teacher notices him watching, she brings him in to try. Jiang Shen’s mother observes and later asks her son if he’s interested in dancing. He is. So his parents take him to ballet classes.

Across the classroom is a boxing class and Jiang Shen meets Bai Jinyi, a boy who dreams of being a professional boxer. A quick friendship blooms between the two and being the first male ballet dancer Bai Jinyi has met, Jiang Shen earns the nickname ‘little swan’.

This was one of the most adorable things I’ve ever read. The cover and synopsis make this sound like a romance but the characters are nine years old when the story starts. I thought I would be disappointed since it would take a long time for the romance to start but I literally couldn’t care less about the delay. The way these characters care for each other will have you crying. The characters love and support each other so much. Though not very financially stable, Jiang Shen’s parents find the money to support their son’s dancing classes. When the financial needs to study ballet become too expensive, his friends are quick to help where they can.

“Where are you going?” Shubao was the first to ask.

Pressing his lips together, Goumao answered, “I’m bringing Shen-zi some strawberries.” He then eyed the basket. “How many eggs are in there?”

Shubao looked down, smiling. “Around sixty? Enough to last Shen-zi a month.”

Goumao nodded. “It’s my turn next time.”

The other raised a brow. With tacit understanding, neither boy exposed what they knew.

Not only towards Jiang Shen but towards each other. Chen Maoxiu adores his little sister, doing what he can to help her with her art and Chen Qingling looks up to her older brother so much you’d be on death’s list if you dared disparage him in her presence. The whole village is supportive, helping each other in times of need and reading about such a supportive community had me tear up in certain scenes. There’s one specifically where Jiang Shen is coming home late and he finds the grumpy old bookseller still open and tells him to close and go rest. He grumpily agrees but then…

Despite what the elder had said, when Jiang Shen left, the man still didn’t close straight away. He paused in his packing, lifted his trembling hand, and raised the lantern beneath the curtain.

The faint light scattered across the only asphalt road in the village, lighting the boy’s way back home.

Tears started running down my face. This was just so soft and comforting. From the friendships to the slowly developing romance. Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi were so adorable.

“You’re beautiful when you dance,” the other boy suddenly said.

Embarrassed, Jiang Shen’s face was a little warm. “No, I’m really not—“

“In my eyes,” Bai Jinyi interrupted,“you’re also someone that’s like the stars and the
moon.”

Amid the fluff, there were moments of humour as well. Such as the time Jiang Shen’s friends found out how rich Bai Jinyi was

“Composure!” Shen Shubao scolded him sternly. “Where’s our villagers’ dignity?!”

With a grimace, Goumao asked, “What dignity…”

Shen Shubao raised a brow proudly. “The dignity of poor people!”

This was a beautiful experience and I can’t wait to read this again in the future.

“I hope that in your life, your dreams will glow ever so brightly, and that you will grow wildly, unhindered, and unwavering.”

[rory (jess' version) · Rating 4 out of 5]

all the danmeis that i've read so far before salad days made me realize how fucked up and heavy their plots were. salad days is like a breath of fresh air, and i'm just here for the good vibes. it's absolutely adorable to read how the children are so devoted to their dreams; their parents and even their neighbors are supportive. i never once encountered animosity from all the characters (maybe there is a slight dislike from jiang shen's shixiong but still). i love how calming their day-to-day lives are, and surprisingly, it soothes me like i'm being sung a lullaby. 

[richa ⋆.˚★ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 🌟

A sweet, mellow novel about the green summer lived through the eyes of Bai Jinyi and Jiang Shen. Jiang Shen, the soon to be ballet dancer storms through the aspiring Bai Jinyi's life. The two navigate different professions while being supported by their village and school friends. It's extremely sweet, enough to make your forget any anxiety. The troubles they face are ephemeral as they burgeon on. I found it adorable.

[Zainab · Rating 4 out of 5]

staaaaahhpppp why was it so freaking adorable i was actually smiling the whole time

[kay! ☾ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️

Bai Jinyi laughed. He reached out with a finger, flicking Jiang Shen’s forehead. “You can’t tell the person about the gift you’re giving them. That’s not romantic at all.”

Pressing his hand against his forehead, Jiang Shen was a little indignant. “Then why did you tell me what gift you wanted?” “You don’t understand.” Bai Jinyi rested his head in his hand, his elbow on his knee.

He looked at Jiang Shen, suddenly smiling. “Dancing for me is romantic.”

sugary sweet slice of life about a ballet dancer & boxer who slowly accomplish their dreams (and fall in love in the process)

the characters were still young children in this so it was more focused on their wholesome friendship. it’s refreshing to have a danmei full of amazingly supportive family members & friends. as someone who loves fluff i found the slow pace & barely there real plot to be fine. i loved getting to know everyone in the village too, they were all so precious

excited to see how their relationship between jiang shen and bai jingyi develops in the second half :)

[Mariam, · Rating 4 out of 5]

I waited 2 and a half years for the manwha to finish, and I would’ve given my kidney to see an uncensored kiss 😭 but bai jinyui and jiang shen are precious. my heart danced to their love.

thank you for making me want to restart my life again, if i was ever given the chance, because that was last thing i ever wanted

apparently the book ver is spicier so 😉

[⋆ ࣪˖ ִֶָ sel ་༘࿐ · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I hope that in your life, your dreams will glow ever so brightly, and that you will grow wildly, unhindered, and unwavering.”

Easiest five stars of my life! I only picked 经久 on a whim during work and I didn't expect to love it so much. Jiang Shen is such a precious child, and he is so loved. I love him, and he deserves everything in the world! I also really love the essence of the title, Salad Days. It perfectly captures the tone of this story. That delicate stage of growing up—uncertain but full of heart—is portrayed so beautifully here.

“The children had built a deep friendship based on eating mud together. Their ‘love’ was truly as deep as the sea, and even more valuable than gold.” I especially love the portrayal of friendship in this volume. It is genuinely heart-melting. These kids are so young and precious, and they help each other in all the small, sincere ways they can. Even if they all have different paths to walk on, they still show up for one another, still reach out, still care. It's so full of quiet understanding and love. Moreover, the camaraderie and connection within the village especially stood out to me. Jiang Shen, the protagonist, comes from poverty, and the people around him are so genuinely supportive of his dream. It's the kind of kindness that hurts in the best possible way.

And then there's his male lead, Bai Jinyi. No matter how nonchalant he tries to appear, his gentleness toward Jiang Shen is undeniable. As Lai Song said, Jiang Shen really is like Bai Jinyi's child bride! He's rich, and he's maximizing that fact to pamper Jiang Shen with gifts, not in a flashy way but in a way that quietly shows that he really cares for his Little Swan. And what makes this so touching is that Jiang Shen is the kind of person who never expects anything. He tries to do everything on his own, and if you give him something, he'll do his best to repay you twofold. That kind of goodness just makes you want to spoil him. I really, truly understand Goumao, Shibao, and Bai Jinyi. I get them so much!

Honestly, I didn't even mind the lack of romance in this volume. The slice-of-life storytelling more than makes up for it. Everything is so tender and beautiful. The entire book feels soaked in kindness. The kind of kindness that's rare and gentle and real. I found myself sobbing at the end of almost every chapter. It made me feel soft all over! It felt like someone was reaching out from the pages and offering me a hand. It made me feel warm. It made me want to live. This is writing that's simply extraordinary. And I'll treasure it. I hope this kindness and warmth lasts forever!

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was cute

They are still children in vol 1, so no romance so far.

[fatima. · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 it was so wholesome i enjoy people helping each other

[Mello · Rating 5 out of 5]

(This is a review for the whole story)

5/5⭐

I can't find the words to describe how heartwarming and soulful this was. The pace of the story resembles a slice of life with characters growing up from childhood to teenage years to youth. The outlook is quite positive, characters face obstacles, but you still know things will turn out right; their family and friends are supportive and there’s nothing really sad happening. This might not be everyone’s cup of tea, however, I truly enjoyed that optimistic view of life.

Kids pursuing impossible dreams, forming life-long friendships, falling in love, and growing up are basically the plot of the story. It could be considered YA, although the last chapters show them as adults exploring their sexuality. I must add that the smut scenes were incredible with the right amount of sweetness and spice 🙈.

For the main couple, love came as easy as breathing, it was a natural transition after years of being friends when they were old enough to understand what a relationship entrails. They are quite the cliché couple: rich boy meets poor village kid and they save each other and live happily ever after, yet at the same time, they are much more than that. Forget any stereotypes that may come to mind with this troupe, none of the usual problems arise, and no angst, no family conflict or inner doubts. Besides, we also have little glimpses of the fascinating ballet and boxing worlds. Their careers always come first, and they support each other as their number one fan. They were very cute together since childhood 💞. This couple will stay forever in my heart 🥰.

[Xantababy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished reading the first volume of Salad Days in just one day, which was a pleasant surprise given how lengthy the chapters felt. The story begins during the characters’ youth, but the pacing of the plot is perfectly balanced. While there’s no romance yet, the narrative revolves around ambiguous friendships that feel authentic and deeply engaging.

Watching these kids navigate the early steps toward their dreams and uncover their passions was both inspiring and heartwarming. The realism in the storytelling touches the heart, making it easy to connect with the characters. Their friendship is particularly admirable, built on respect, trust, and reliance, it’s the kind of bond that many would envy.

What stood out to me most was how well these kids were raised, despite growing up in a small town. They exhibit kindness, good manners, and compassion, embodying the values of a close-knit and wholesome community. It’s the kind of place I’d love to be a part of, surrounded by people who genuinely care for one another.

As the first volume concludes, it feels like a stepping stone to something greater. Volume 2 seems to mark the beginning of the main character’s personal journey, and I’m eagerly looking forward to seeing how their story unfolds.

[Nel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very sweet slice of life danmei. Read it after you've been burnt by some heavier novels. They are still children in vol 1, so no romance for now.

[Mei ☽︎ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lmaooo the ending sentence. 🤣

I simultaneously the manhua and the novel for about halfway of this volume before focusing on the novel. Really comfy and sweet slice of life read. 🥰 I love how easy it is to read. Can't wait to see how the developments go in book 2.

[Shu Wei Chin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Literally everyone is an absolute sweetie!

The story follows these two beautiful little boys, who just share the most wholesome and genuine friendship/puppy love throughout their childhood. Their friends and family are also so supportive and warm, SEEEERIOUSLY if you want to smile all day and melt just read this.

In terms of plot, this is a simple slice of life story, focusing on the endearment of childhood and being lucky enough to be surrounded by loved ones through joys and struggles. Little angst, much fluff.

The translation itself can get a little clunky at times, but I still really enjoyed this ✨

[Andreth Saelind · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

This first volume of Salad Days was very wholesome and sweet! I was pleasantly surprised by the hopefulness it portrays, especially as most of the volume follows the protagonists as kids.

Summary
The novel follows Jiang Shen, who comes from a small rural village. His family is poorer than the other village inhabitants, but Jiang Shen makes a point to always repay favours and help given. He quickly develops a passion for dancing when a ballet teacher from the local city spots him and gives him a pair of ballet shoes. He then meets Bai Jinyi, who trains for boxing in the local right across from the dance studio. The two form a strong bond that will last them throughout childhood, allowing the other to touch their heart.

Review
I became quickly invested in all the characters of this story. Jiang Shen makes many friends along the way, as he is of kind, innocent and honest nature. Each kid has its distinct personality and life aspirations, and they all care for one another in their own ways. Bai Jinyi is also interesting, as he is cold and reserved, but visibly cares deeply for his friends. Jiang Shen and him strike a relationship based on gifts and repayment of kindness that transforms in genuine care over time. This novel, despite its hopeful approach, still shows the children grappling with growing up, and what it means to have dreams. As they realise that some wild dreams may not be realistic, they also learn that some of them are worth fighting for. Following Jiang Shen as he realises that there might be something different about him that could lead him to become a professional ballet dancer, and all his friends that rise up to help him accomplish that, was a very touching reading experience.

🩰 The dance elements themselves were pretty good! I'm usually skeptical about art-focused novels, as it can be tricky to incorporate these elements while sounding both realistic, and while also romanticising them, as it's kind of the point 😄 Appart from the fact that pointe shoes tend to be more difficult to use than depicted here, I was happy to see real ballet vocabulary and depiction of famous performances. I can't speak to more than this (as, for example, I don't know if boys also learn pointe shoes when they are younger), but this novel made my teenage-dance-obsessed self happy.

My only quirk is in the writing style, as the sentence "X-character was left speechless", and its variations, occurred so often that I could not unsee it after realising this 😅 That being said, the dialog was quite good and the characterisation was simply wonderful. It's definitely on the slower, character-driven side, but the wholesomeness of this one makes it all worth it.

[grayi ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I hope that in your life, your dreams will grow ever so brightly, and that you will grow wildly, unhindered and unwavering.”

Beautiful. I'm in awe of how a dream can blossom from sheer curiosity: Jiang Shen's chance encounter with a group of girls practicing ballet at the community center set in motion an incredible journey.

This book illustrates how community can uplift you. When the people you love believe in you and your passion, when they trust you, and decide to do whatever they can to support you. Whether their efforts were big or small, the fact that they're there makes all the difference for Jiang Shen. I could cry.

Bai Jinyi and Jiang Shen's puppy love is everything to me. Their playful banter, their shared dreams, and their dedication to working together... Jiang Shen's gradual realization of his feelings, despite his youthful naiveté, is simply heartwarming. They're the epitome of first love.

Dreams are bittersweet. They carry risks, and often, they're a privilege not everyone can afford. And this book perfectly captures that essence. Above all, for me, this is a story about dreams and how, even if not all of us can achieve our picture-perfect life, we don't have to let go of what we love, we can hold on. It's not fruitless to keep dreaming.

5/5🌟 And the bookstore grandpa gets 1000 stars.

[Camila · Rating 5 out of 5]

HERMOSO. Todo es tan lindo en esta novela que he estado al borde de las lágrimas (de emoción) muchas veces. No solo la pareja principal tiene una química muy bonita, sino que la relación del protagonista con sus amigos, con sus padres y las historias entre medio de los secundarios son preciosas. Me encanta como se narra el día a día en esta historia, todo ocurre de forma orgánica, lo cual le da un toque realista.
Bai Jinyi y Jiang Sheng están desarrollando una hermosa relación. Estoy ansiosa por leer la segunda parte.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's just so heart warming. I love everything in this book.

[Cindee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is a great start to a story I am looking forward to reading more of. The characters are interesting I especially loved Jiang Shen and Bai Jinyi a happy go lucky boy who likes ballet and a bit gruff boy who likes boxing I am really liking their friendship so far. The plot was interesting it tells of a boy named Jiang Shen who is poor that gets interested in ballet he then meets a boy who does boxing who is from a rich family there are many interesting things in between with Jiang Shen's friends and family it was a really good read looking forward to reading more soon

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, but the cover and comic adaptation do not represent the story well. For starters, Jiang Chen and Bai Jinyi start this volume at the age of 9 and end it at 12. They are both children. So, the romance aspects are basically just them liking each other's company and periodically having confusing thoughts. I would say it is a bit of an overstatement to call this book a romance, it is more of a slice-of-life or coming-of-age story. Jiang Chen spends the majority of this story hanging out with his friends and thinking about ballet. Bai Jinyi is honestly barely even in the story. He shows up more towards the end and will likely be quite present in the next volume, but we don't see a lot of him here. I would say the main theme of this volume is how difficult it can be to pursue the arts when you come from an impoverished area, and how Jiang Chen is able to continue pursuing his dream due to the support of his family, friends, and village.

[Iulia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a breath of fresh air. Although not much is happening, it was so beautifully written that I didn't mind one bit.

Every character was so nice, I loved all of them. You should read this if you're in the mood for something very wholesome and pure. It made me feel that life isn't so bad after all.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Cuando eres calmado y firme, los sueños son infinitos"

Esta es la historia más pura y tierna que he leído este año 🩷

Amo demasiado la historia de cada personaje, porque no solo se trata de un romance sano, si no de como todos han luchado por cumplir sus sueños a pesar de las adversidades.

[Love, Lizzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Una obra de arte y una perfección de ternura calienta corazones ❤️

[si si ʚɞ˚‧｡⋆]

i remember reading this a long time ago and loving it but i never kept up with the updates

[Andy · Rating 4 out of 5]

crying screaming

[Flora Morada · Rating 5 out of 5]

Este libro es una curita al corazón

[Daiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jiang Chen y Bai Jinyi se llevaron por completo mi corazón, al igual que el manhua es un amor tan inocente y lindo.
Cada escena hizo que mi corazón fuera feliz, cómo todos los amigos y papás de Jiang Chen a pesar de que no tuvieran suficientes recursos hicieron hasta lo imposible para que siguiera su sueño fue simplemente conmovedor.

[rooo · Rating 4 out of 5]

ignorando la portada atroz, el libro es una droga no lo podía parar de leer

[Mei. · Rating 5 out of 5]

fue como un abracito ❤️‍🩹