Chinese Literature

Delving into "Strange Tales of Liaozhai" takes you on a mystical journey through ancient China, where the line between the human world and the realm of the supernatural blurs. Pu's masterful storytelling intertwines with vivid characters – from mischievous fox-fairies to poignant ghosts, ensuring not just an entertaining read, but a unique glimpse into the lives of the Ming and Qing inhabitants. The blend of fantasy and cultural insights, paired with Tsai Chih Chung's engaging illustrations, makes this a fascinating pick for anyone intrigued by folklore and history.

This captivating tale takes readers on a thrilling adventure alongside the mischievous yet lovable Monkey King. With fantastic foes, demons, and monsters, this book is filled with action and excitement. But beyond the gripping storyline, the Monkey King's transformation from a rule-breaking troublemaker to a disciplined hero seeking enlightenment is the most remarkable aspect, making it a must-read for those looking for personal growth and self-discovery.

This classic Chinese epic features a new introduction by Daniel Kane, Head of Chinese Studies at Macquarie University and Cultural Counselor at the Australian Embassy in Beijing in 1996.China's most famous traditional novel, The Monkey King's Amazing Adventures is the story of the Monkey King, his incredible origin and downfall, and his epic quest to redeem himself with his trusted companions, as they face fantastic foes, demons, and monsters and have amazing adventures in their travels to the Western paradise.No matter what obstacle was put before him, the talented, wily Monkey King always got what he wanted—unimaginable strength, eternal life, even a position in the Celestial Realm with the gods. But more than anything else, the Monkey King loved mischief and rule-breaking, and he was sure that he was the most powerful creature in the world.But after defeat and punishment, the Monkey King found himself wanting some things he never expected: to be good enough and have the discipline to help the monk Xuanzang on his mission to bring Buddhist Scriptures—and enlightenment—to China.Readers will thrill to Timothy Richard's retelling of the Monkey King's exploits—he never disappoints, whether in the Dragon King's underwater castle, the Halls of the Dead, or the palace of Buddha himself—and find themselves captivated as he joins Xuanzang and his other trusted companions, the Dragon Horse, the Monk Sand, and the equally mischievous Pig on the dangerous trek West.

If you're drawn to grand historical tapestries woven with intricate political maneuvers and philosophies, "The Three Kingdoms" is your match. It’s a deep dive into a turbulent era, where strategic alliances and battlefield heroics define the landscape. The condensed tales of camaraderie and cunning will transport you, making you feel like both an observer and a companion to legendary figures wrestling with destiny.

Dive into the surreal and absurd world of post-Mao China through Can Xue's "Old Floating Cloud". With images that are simultaneously grotesque and captivating, this book offers a unique perspective on Chinese reality. Prepare to be immersed in a world of uncertain spaces, indeterminate identities, and limitless transformations that will leave you questioning the boundaries of imagination and truth.

"Journey to the West" isn't just a trek across geography—it's a dive into the very fabric of mythology, courage, and camaraderie. You'll find yourself rooting for Xuanzang and his eccentric companions. The battles are epic, the humor is delightful, and the spiritual quest is profoundly moving. It's an ancient tale, but its themes of resilience and faith are timeless. If you love grand adventures and rich cultural tapestries, your imagination will be ignited with every page.

China's most popular traditional novel, Journey to the West is the thrilling story of the Monkey King and his epic quest, with his trusted companions, to redeem himself.No matter what obstacle was put before him, the clever, wily Monkey King always got what he wanted—unimaginable strength, eternal life, even his own position in the Celestial Realm with the gods. They face fantastic foes, demons and monsters during their amazing adventures traveling to the Western paradise. More than anything else, though, the Monkey King loved mischief and rule–breaking, and was sure he was the most powerful creature in the world.But after defeat and punishment for his tricks, the Monkey King found himself wanting some things he never expected: to be disciplined and good enough to help the monk Hsuan Zhang on his mission to bring Buddhist Scriptures—and enlightenment—to China.Readers of all ages will thrill to Timothy Richard's retelling of the Monkey King's exploits—whether in the Dragon King's underwater castle, the Halls of the Dead or the palace of Buddha himself—and find themselves captivated as the Monkey King joins Hsuan Zhang and their companions the Dragon Horse, the Monk Sand and the equally mischievous Pig on the dangerous trek West. Despite the tale's ancient origins, Journey to the West proves as fresh and engaging an adventure as anything written today.

The Three Kingdoms is a well-renowned classic that is known for its portrayal of righteousness, loyalty, and wisdom. It is an exciting read about the power struggles during the Three Kingdoms period, and features captivating episodes such as "oath of brotherhood at the Peach Garden", Liu Bei's "three visits to the cottage", and the "Battle of Red Cliff". This abridged version enables readers to grasp the highlights of the novel and take a glimpse of the ups and downs of the heroes of ancient times.