I know that so many of the people I have interviewed are approaching the time when they can no longer continue their trades: the future feels so uncertain. This book – a collection of stories and photos focusing on my personal encounters with the shop owners, our chit-chats and laughs, insights and memories, and the everyday feel of these shops across Hong Kong – has been a most humble learning experience. I write to honour people’s lives. I write to show my appreciation for their trades. I write to preserve cultural heritage. I am trying to create a sustainable future for these trades and services that for decades – or even centuries – have been an integral part of Hong Kong life.

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