Mai Jia's 2002 novel is published in English by Penguin. Provided to China Daily

Its main character, Rong Jinzhen, an autistic math genius from a prominent family, is hired by the military's top secret Unit 701 to break two highly advanced codes. During the secret and stressful work, he experiences loneliness, loss and finally, madness.

The novel also explores metaphysical concepts such as dream interpretation and the fine line between genius and insanity.

After Mo Yan, the Nobel Laureate of Literature in 2012, Mai is now considered one of the handful of Chinese authors with "overseas success" .

Besides Decoded, his representative works include Letting the Mashed Man Speak, Plot and Sound of the Wind.