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Imagine: you’re not on a diet, but you’re losing weight. You haven’t had a facial treatment, but you’re looking younger. You’re not taking supplements, but you’re feeling great. In fact, all of these things can actually happen. Undesirable physical and mental conditions such as obesity, aging, and fatigue are all due to toxins in your body. This book will help you identify toxins, and teach you how to use natural detoxification therapy from traditional Chinese medicine to dispel them and improve your overall health in a simple way. You will learn: How to identify toxins in your environment and body. How to check the toxins in your body through observing surface-level changes or symptoms. How to detoxify your heart, liver, lung, spleen, and kidneys through TCM food therapy and self-massage. The massage methods and detailed recipes include pictures and text, and are simple and easy to follow. Targeted detoxification methods such as beauty and slimming for those concerned about their appearance and weight, enhancing longevity for the elderly, healthy growth for children, reducing health hazards for those who drink and smoke, and healthcare tips for working people.

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Once upon a time, there is a fisherman who lives alone with his son Qiqi. One day, strange things suddenly happen in the village where they live. The children in the village keep disappearing mysteriously. As a result, the children stay at home every day and never dare to go out and play. The fisherman must go out to work every day to make a living when Qiqi is left alone at home. He feels very lonely, so he makes many dolls from mud to keep him company. One day, the fisherman brings home a clay doll with the blessings from the Lord of Land. He gives it to Qiqi to keep him safe and happy. However, Qiqi accidentally breaks the clay doll. He becomes very anxious and tries to repair the clay doll. When he repaints the eyes for the clay doll, something magic happens. The clay doll turns into a little girl. It turns out that she is the little fairy who oversees the soil! On hearing the strange things in the village, the little fairy is determined to help Qiqi to bring back his friends. What will the little fairy do? Where have the children disappeared to? Has she finally helped the little boy find his friends? Read and find out!

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Is it possible to take your health in your own hand without having to see a doctor? Common problems such as acne and pimples, color spots, swollen face, red veins in the eyes and on the face, and color changes in the face—what caused these things to happen? Facial diagnosis in traditional Chinese medicine can help you understand the various signals your body sends out regarding the state of your health. Facial diagnosis is an integral part of TCM’s diagnostic methods. TCM believes that all that exists on the inside of the body will ultimately reveal themselves on the outside. By observing changes occurring in the face, one can gain insight into the health status of the internal organs of the human body, thereby preventing some diseases from developing and improving one’s health as a result. Facial diagnostic method, as introduced in this book, is easy to learn and practice. Combined with pictures and texts, the book is accessible to the readers and suitable for daily home health care.

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The kindness and generosity of those born under the sign of the sheep in the Chinese zodiac is brought to life in this heartwarming multicultural fairy tale.Long, long ago, there lived a kind physician. He lived on a mountain in a small Chinese village where he practiced traditional Chinese medicine for all the villagers. On his way home one day, he found an injured sheep, rescued it and brought it home where he nursed the sheep back to life.One evening, after the sheep had been living with the physician for some time, a beast barged into the village, demanding payment of each household in the form of one child. If the villagers refused to hand over their children, the beast would eat everyone!In the blink of an eye, the rescued sheep transforms into a lovely girl, who, with a clever plan, manages to frighten the beast away and keep everyone in the village safe from harm. And so, with one simple act of kindness, an entire village is saved, reminding us that every action, no matter how small, has consequences.Other books in the Chinese Zodiac Series (as well as the year of that animal) include: Little Pigs and the Sweet Rice Cakes—2007 & 2019 Magical Rooster—2005 & 2017 Water Dragon—2012 & 2024 Little Monkey King's Journey—2016 & 2028 Snake Goddess Colors the World—2013 & 2025 Horse and the Mysterious Drawing—2014 & 2026 Bronze Dog—2006 & 2018 Little Rat and the Golden Seed—2008 & 2020 Little Calf—2009 & 2021

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In ancient times a Persian trade merchant was lost in a windstorm. Suddenly a spiritual deer with nine colors appear to guide the man with directions. Later on the deer would rescue a man drowning in a river. In exchange the man makes a promise not to talk about the deer's whereabouts. The man would reach an imperial palace. The king insisted on hunting down the spiritual deer down to make clothes out of the deer skin. With an army of warriors, the man could not resist the profit opportunity and led them to the same spot as before. He falls back into the same water, hoping the deer would show up to rescue him. This time all the warrior arrows turned into dust and the man is drowned.

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This series of popular Chinese stories have been taken from their original movie format by Shanghai Animation and Film Studio and adapted to book form by Sammu Tang. Gorgeously illustrated, all six of these tales are sure to delight, regardless of age or cultural background.

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This colorfully illustrated children's book tells a Chinese fairy tale about the monkey king and his attempt to capture the moon.One night, the monkey king saw the moon in the night sky and desired to have it for himself. He ordered all the monkeys to climb to the top of the mountain and form a monkey ladder, standing on one another's shoulders. The smallest monkey was on top, trying to pluck the moon from the sky. The little monkey tried hard but simply could not reach it. The king, looking down in disappointment, saw the moon in a pool down below. Jumping up into a tree, the king clasped hold of a sturdy branch with his legs and hung downwards. Then, one by one, the monkeys held one another's feet until the long line of hanging monkeys reached the surface of the water. The little monkey reached into the water to scoop up the shining moon, but all he got was…a few drops of water.

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On a windy day, panda siblings Guagua and Yaya decide to go on an adventure, setting out from under the shelter of their trusty old umbrella. However, when a wicked wind swipes the little red umbrella and tosses it high into a tree, the two pandas look up to see it shredded and out of their reach. Even worse, it is soon picked up and transported to a dump, far away from the little panda cubs.Their mother tries to comfort them, even giving them a brand new umbrella, but the pair are still upset and can't get over the fact that it's not the same as their old one.Imagine the two little pandas' surprise when they see a donkey walk past carrying a little red umbrella…just like the one they had! They set out on a quest to find their old friend and finally recovered the warmth, shelter and love the little red umbrella had always brought to their lives.

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Learn how the kind ox earned his place as one of the Chinese Zodiac Animals.The little calf is very curious about the world, but hasn't experienced much of it in his young life. When he and his mother begin to help the aging grandfather that lives next door to their farm, that changes.In the spring, when the grandpa is struggling to plow the fields, the calf picks up the plow without saying a word. He runs up and down the fields, though his plowing is uneven. The calf soon learns from his mother cow how to plow the fields neatly. In return, the grandpa prepares fresh grass and sweet spring water for them. In the autumn, when the grandpa is too weak to grind wheat, the calf wants to help. He fails after his first attempt, but soon learns from his mother how to grind wheat into fine flour.In the winter, when the grandpa is too tired to pull his cart into town to sell his flour, the calf volunteers to help him. The cart is heavy and the calf has never pulled one before. Along the bumpy road, it is shaking so badly that the grandpa keeps bouncing around, but the calf soon learns from his mother cow how to pull the cart smoothly. When they finally arrive in town, the calf and grandpa exchange their flour for a cart full of goods for the Chinese New Year, which they celebrate together at home.This is a story about courage, diligence and being helpful. The "Cultural Explanation" section at the end of the book includes the characteristics of the people born in the year of Ox and the years they were born. It also includes an interesting Chinese idiom about the calf.Other books in the Chinese Zodiac Series (as well as the year of that animal) include: Little Pigs and the Sweet Rice Cakes—2007 & 2019 Magical Rooster—2005 & 2017 Water Dragon—2012 & 2024 Little Monkey King's Journey—2016 & 2028 Snake Goddess Colors the World—2013 & 2025 Horse and the Mysterious Drawing—2014 & 2026 Sheep Beauty—2015 & 2027 Bronze Dog—2006 & 2018 Little Rat and the Golden Seed—2008 & 2020

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This beautifully illustrated bilingual Chinese and English storybook welcomes you to enjoy a light-hearted story of how chopsticks became the main eating utensil of the Chinese People.When Little Mo picks up a small bamboo stick from the bamboo forest, she has no idea that it will eventually lead to one of China's most significant inventions. In this Children's story the stick comes to life to help in the kitchen. The little bamboo stick helps Mom pick out vegetables from a bowl of hot soup, helps Little Mo to eat the remaining rice in her bowl, and helps Dad to stir eggs. The stick soon learns it has limitations, unable to easily pick up noodles from a bowl.Little Mo quickly solves this problem by finding another bamboo stick to join the team. As a duo, the stocks can cut buns in half and pick up pork dumplings without any difficulty. Her dad then gives them the name "chopsticks" and improves upon their design. First used in China over 3,000 years ago, their use spread to other Asian countries and all over the world!

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This award-winning novel, by one of China's most prolific contemporary writers focuses on a middle-class family in near contemporary Shanghai and deals with themes that transcend time and place: family relationships and growing old.Retired nurse Ling Deqing is astonished one day to find her long divorced 80-year-old husband, Xiao Zichen, standing on the doorstep. Following the death of his second wife, he has found his way back to his first home in a fit of absent-mindedness, a sign of the onset of dementia. Reluctant at first, Ling Deqing eventually takes him back to ease the burden on her daughter, Xiao Ying.In Memory and Oblivion, the larger world disappears into the day-to-day problems of caring for a person with Alzheimer's. But within those problems, Ling Deqing discovers the beauty of family relationships, brought into sharp clarity against the backdrop of oblivion caused by Alzheimer's.

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This book of contemporary Chinese literature contains two separate novellas, Calling Back the Spirit of the Dead and The Boarder by one of China's most prolific writers.Calling Back the Spirit of the DeadIn this story of intrigue and heartbreak, Peng Ruigao takes the reader into the heart of a small town and peels away the layers of deceit and corruption that have been surrounding many of its residents. In the middle of the night, Ah Peng is called into the town offices and told of the sudden death of Deputy Town Chief Wei Shouyi. The mysterious death shakes up not only the town offices, but Party headquarters as well. Ah Peng slowly unravels the strange events surrounding this mysterious death of his best friend and colleague and exposes the complexity of the relationships that have been simmering just below the surface of this small town. Betrayal, corruption and romance all have a place in this well-paced, beautifully described yet constantly surprising story. As he unearths more and more details of the events surrounding and preceding his colleague's death, Ah Peng discovers that his own past has been subjected to the forces of jealousy and treachery as well and that neither events nor people are what they seem. An artfully calibrated mystery, this story draws the reader in and keeps surprising through until the very end. The BoarderPeng Ruigao's prose set the tone perfectly for a tale of hardship and perseverance in the Huanglou Township Secondary School. The school's students must contend with the difficulty not just of being far from home, but of the terrible shortage of food they suffer as a consequence of famine in the country. Amongst the students of Class 6 of the ninth grade, a bully named Liu Tingsong slowly contaminates the lives and relationships of the other children at the school as he pushes them to the brink of despair. The gentle Ma Xiaolong is subjected to persecution because of his parents' deeds and political affiliations by staff at the school, while others have their misbehavior overlooked as their parents are in positions of influence. His suffering is alleviated in tender moments of attention from the delicate and kind-hearted Luo Zhaoying who sacrifices whatever she can to help him along. Underneath the cruel behavior of the students there is a glimmer of hope in the loyalty and kindness shown through tiny acts of generosity, loyalty and tenderness, which sustain them through very difficult times. These moments provide respite and redemption from the injustice the students have to endure not just at the hands of their teachers, but the other students as well. In a moving and lyrical tone, Peng Ruigao's beautiful and haunting descriptions bring to life a very difficult time not only in the children's lives, but in China's history.

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A truly remarkable story of Zen medicine and how you can bring its practices into your own life.Author Shi Zxinggui began studying Zen medicine—a combination of meditation, gentle physical activity and medicine—as a child under the tutelage of the Shaolin Temple's Master Dechan. She carried it with her, eventually going on to lecture on the subject in both China and abroad for several decades. When she was diagnosed with terminal colon cancer, Zxinggui returned to the Shaolin Temple, hoping the Zen medicine she'd spent so long teaching others about would help her. After careful nursing and appropriate mind and body exercises, her cancer went into remission.Since her own cancer battle, Zxinggui has helped many other cancer patients, devoting her life to this work. This book, which draws on the author's 20 years as a cancer fighter, 50 years as a doctor and life-long wisdom as a Zen practitioner, provides insight into how readers can implement these strategies, which emphasize daily health care and cultivation of the body and soul, into their own lives—not only to help with physical diseases, but also to ease mental anxieties and inspire others to live a clean, healthy life.Ailments addressed in the book are varied, and include: IBS Lumbar disc herniation Back and leg soreness High blood pressure Asthma And many others

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This book provides a condensed, comprehensible, but complete overview of the history of Chinese porcelain.By studying the most notable characteristics of porcelain in different periods throughout history, it explores the evolution of the great kilns, and describes the influence of factors such as social and economic development, political change, and foreign cultures. Each one of these affected porcelain's shapes, uses, colors, styles, patterns, and other features in unique ways. An Illustrated Brief History of Chinese Porcelain explains the cultural implications and the aesthetic and philosophical concepts which underlie the porcelain we know today.The origins of Chinese porcelain lie as far back as the Shang (1600–1050BCE) and Zhou (1046–256BCE) dynasties. One of the treasures of Chinese civilization, porcelain was first fashioned in the five great kiln-sites at the beginning of the second millennium, then evolved to form the splendid blue-and-white of the Yuan, before reaching its apogee in the Ming (1368–1644AD) and Qing (1644–1912AD) dynasties.An Illustrated Brief History of Chinese Porcelain makes extensive use of archeological material from excavations at historic kilns and grave sites undertaken since 1949, as well as the results of new research. It presents readers with images of outstanding examples of different types of porcelain—including celadon, blanc de Chine, famille rose, and blue-and-white ware.

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For thousands of years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has helped countless people with their health, and is still widely sought after today—especially by those all over the world who are intrigued by natural healing and healthcare.The culture underlying TCM is broad and the information incredibly extensive, which means it can be difficult to know where to start for those who are interested in learning. This book does just that, providing both an encyclopedia of knowledge in the field, while also acting as a practical manual to guide readers to greater health. It offers an effective, easy-to-learn set of daily TCM skills and expert advice on how to use them.Through this book, you can learn: Basic concepts such as yin-yang, the five elements, meridians and acupoints, qi, blood flow and constitution How to judge your own health status through constitution tests and develop a personalized health plan for yourself How to make external adjustments for your health through TCM practices such as acupressure, cupping, scraping, heat treatment, acupuncture, massage and other methods TCM methods of natural internal adjustments including food therapy, herbal medicine, breathing techniques, sleep, meditation, qigong and other practices that will enhance your physical and mental health from the inside out A twelve-hour regimen with adaptations for each of the four seasons, stages in life, times of day, and place where it is practiced, allowing readers to customize the plan to their lives

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Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) approaches the concept of achieving and maintaining beauty from the inside out. A tree can't have beautiful foliage unless it has a strong root system, and likewise the human body can't show beautiful radiance unless its internal organs and systems are kept healthy and nourished. This exemplifies the core concept of yi nei yang wai—to nourish the inside so it shines outside. In the West, exterior conditions such as wrinkles are often just seen as a mark of the ravages of time, and are treated topically and, therefore, superficially. TCM believes these conditions communicate a message about something happening inside the body. For example, spots or wrinkles that appear on a spleen meridian line may indicate dysfunction of that organ, and when the spleen is nourished and rebalanced, it can help correct problems such as edema, cellulite and sagging skin. Therefore the TCM approach is holistic, striving to solve the root cause, looking at the particular organ system that is affected and bringing it back in harmony through diet and other natural means. By introducing vital TCM concepts—such as the Five Elements, qi, meridians and organ systems—this book will help you unlock the secrets to optimizing natural beauty. Using a traditional Chinese approach you can improve your skin, hair and nails, increase fitness, help stop aging, and so much more.

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In Chinese Zen, author Prof. Yansheng shows how Zen, with its universal concern for the human condition, can help the individual achieve happiness and spiritual stability through a "eureka moment" of enlightenment that liberates the mind from its world of competing interests.By drawing on the vast literature of Chinese Zen Buddhism, Prof. Yansheng presents traditional Buddhist sayings, stories and dialogues that illustrate the way historical masters of Zen sought to induce their pupils to reduced inner conflict. In so doing, he allows the reader a panoramic view of the origins and development of Zen Buddhism in China and demonstrates its influence on literature in particular.

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Wood, rice, oil, salt, soy sauce, vinegar and tea—otherwise known as "the seven things that open the door"—are the basic kitchen necessities Chinese people cannot do without in their daily lives. Among them, tea holds a very special place. It is not only a beverage, but also an integral part of people's hearts and minds, thus shaping a unique tea culture in China.In All the Tea in China, you will learn everything about Chinese tea for practical uses, as well as for meditation. Discover the origin of tea, its different species, production method and drinking etiquette. Also, through the vivid illustrations, readers will gain information about what tea is and how to identify a good quality kind. At the same time, the quotations, poems, sayings, and stories in the book are presented chronologically so that readers can appreciate what tea has inspired and why it continues to delight the Chinese people. A joy to read, All the Tea in China will be sure to enhance your tea experience.

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This beautifully photographed Chinese art book is a comprehensive exploration of jade and its history in China from the Neolithic times to the Qing dynasty.To the Chinese people, jade is a precious stone endowed with magical properties which encapsulated all that mankind aspires to in terms of character, elegance, tranquility, purity and virtue. The Chinese love jade not merely because of its rarity or its luster but because of a deeper aesthetic value.Chinese Jade: The Spiritual and Cultural Significance of Jade in China presents a comprehensive view of jade and its history in China from Neolithic times to the Qing dynasty. It illustrates pieces of jade that are on display not only in the Palace Museum in Beijing but in the many provincial and other museums across China. It will help the reader to understand what jade means to the Chinese in China; how it is classified and described and where it is found and worked and displayed. It has a value beyond that of a simple catalog and places jade in its natural, and central, cultural context.

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Choosing the foods and herbs that are right for you is essential to achieving and maintaining good health. Over thousands of years, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has accumulated knowledge about using foods and herbs therapeutically, providing a natural way to boost energy and immunity, extend longevity, enhance beauty, reduce toxins, regulate mood and treat other health conditions, externally and internally. This book will help you put the wisdom of TCM to use, guiding you with case studies, treatment details, recipes and illustrations. Inside you'll find practical and easy-to-understand information about: Assessing your body constitution The features of food according to TCM Customizing your selection of foods and herbs Using food to treat or prevent health problems Improving your appearance and mental outlook This book also features a handy chapter on nearly 90 functional foods and herbs. Arranged alphabetically, with quick facts and photos, this resource will help you plan your strategy for healthy living by using foods and plants specifically suited for your body, lifestyle and goals. Let TCM help you better understand your body and show you how to make the choices that are best for you!

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In China, the rhythms of time and nature are understood to affect the body and general health and wellbeing. Traditional Chinese medicine incorporates the ebbs and flows of time into achieving and maintaining good health. The cycle of four seasons is a complete circulation and the same is true of the 24-hour day. Understanding this kind of "body clock" is what The Body Clock Guide is all about, regardless of whether or not you are a practitioner of TCM.In ancient China, a day was divided into 12 two-hour periods. In each two-hour period there is a different channel or collateral with vital energy "on duty." This book uses descriptive illustrations and texts to clearly explain how to utilize the theories of collaterals and channels, including: How to read signals from your body Prompts for the schedule of daily life Tips for choosing appropriate beverages and food Simple ways of massaging acupuncture points By establishing habits that conform to the rhythm of life, you will see notable and long-lasting effects. So start listening to Mother Nature and your own body and get on track towards achieving good health.

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Jing Gong (quiet sitting) has been shrouded in mysticism since it traveled out of the Far East and across the shores to the West. Along the way, new schools of thought developed and the essential keys to the simple practice that is Jing Gong had been lost.Quiet Sitting: The Daoist Approach for a Healthy Mind and Body is a combination of two translated texts from two of the most famous Jing Gong pioneers in China during the early 20th century. This no-frills handbook is essential to anyone who is interested in the Eastern technique of breathing for a healthy mind and body. Free of esoteric words and phrases, this book offers beginner students a basic, yet powerful, knowledge of the breath: where it comes from, how it is distributed throughout the body, and how to harness it to heal from within.Whether you are looking for alternative ways to improve your physical health, maintain your mental well being, or curious about breathing meditations, Quiet Sitting provides the basic tools needed to get started.

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Anyone interested in traditional Chinese painting will find these four volumes useful for self-study. Each of the four volumes teach amateur brush painters to execute the intricacies of Chinese brush painting. Beginning with the separate parts and then progressing to the composition, these volumes feature exquisite illustrations that will enable the learner to pick up the basics as if in a classroom setting.

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This commentary on the Chinese masterpiece, The Classic of Tea, offers a fascinating perspective on this ancient pastime and art.The Classic of Tea, the first known monograph on tea in the world, was written in the 8th century by Lu Yu who devoted his entire life to the study of tea and is respected as the Sage of Tea. Wu Juenong, an agronomist and economist specializing in agriculture, has studied tea all his life. This book is the culmination of lifelong research on Chinese tea culture and history, introducing the readers to modern findings of effects and properties of tea, types of tea preparations, the evolution of tea growing regions and tea drinking customs across China, in addition to extensive annotation. Both scholarly and informative, An Illustrated Modern Reader of 'The Classic of Tea' has been acclaimed as a New Classic of Tea. An Illustrated Modern Reader of 'The Classic of Tea' also includes vivid illustrations and pictures of tools and utensils for the making and drinking of tea, either hand-drawn or collected by him, which the original The Classic of Tea lacked. Selected Chinese traditional paintings in the book illuminate the elegant art of brewing and drinking tea, the social rituals associated with tea drinking, and the reformative and cultural significance of tea ceremonies.

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This Chinese papercraft book introduces readers to 24 unique paper flower patterns, with techniques for their folding and decoration, and tips for composition, color matching, floral vessels and display.The 24 patterns are designed to match the "24 solar terms" on the Chinese lunisolar calendar, with six flowers for each of the four seasons. They are ideal for gracing your living room, bedroom, study or hallway, as ornaments on mirrors and bookcases, or as wall hangings and window display, or being made into bracelet, garland and hairpin accessories. Some can look surprisingly realistic, while others are ingeniously designed, all being great for birthday parties, family gatherings, New Year parties and weddings. Notably, each design has incorporated elements of the Chinese art of flower arrangement, with elegant simplicity and Eastern charm. The Chinese origami book comes with patterns for folds for each design. Readers can either copy these patterns by hand on their preferred paper or simply photocopy them to cut and fold paper flowers by themselves.

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The art of bonsai is widely known in the West: from the Karate Kid to the American Bonsai Association and even local grocery stores, bonsai has become a common sight in the States. But bonsai, the Japanese art of creating miniature trees, actually originated in China, where it's called penjing. Penjing, meaning "tray scenery," is a traditional Chinese art of creating miniature potted landscapes including trees and other plants. Brought from China to Japan in ancient times before spreading to the West, bonsai/penjing is now popular throughout the world. In China, the art of creating miniature landscapes has evolved in several different ways. Literati Style Penjing: Chinese Bonsai Masterworks focuses on a special category of penjing associated with traditional Chinese culture, such as the painting of the literati, or elite scholar-bureaucrats, of imperial China. Like literati ink paintings, this style of penjing has a subtle elegance distinguished by a lone, lean trunk with sparse foliage exhibiting distinct lines and simplicity. The term "literati style penjing" has been widely accepted by the bonsai community and is becoming more common within the bonsai world. It is well suited to melding concepts from Chinese painting, poetry and Zen into a stunning bonsai work, making it of interest to a wide variety of gardening styles. Literati Style Penjing; Chinese Bonsai Masterworks explains the concept of penjing with a literati bent, exploring its rich history and aesthetics, as well as cultivation techniques, and care and maintenance. It includes 12 examples of literati style penjing creations, which incorporate a deep knowledge of the art form together with practical creativity and artistic beauty. Lovers of bonsai will find much to inspire and delight within these pages.

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This exquisite edition of A Dream of Red Mansions features a rare set of Qing Dynasty paintings by Sun Wen. This collector's edition features a complete set of Sun Wen's 230 paintings in splendid color, printed on fine paper. Condensed text from the original novel accompanies each of the paintings and offers a wonderful insight and a brief summary of each of the 120 chapters. This rare edition will be a keepsake for many generations, and is perfect for gift-giving and presentations. The original paintings are presently preserved in Lvshun Museum, Dalian, China.

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After planting a seed, the blue bird returns to find a full-grown tree, admiring how it changes through every season of the year. At first, she is delighted by its bright flowers and beautiful green leaves, but as winter approaches, the leaves fall, leaving the little tree barren and cold.The little tree worries that the blue bird won't love it anymore now that its colorful flowers are gone. However, the blue bird continues to care for the tree through every change, so much so that she makes her home within its branches—keeping the tree company for the rest of their lives.A Blue Bird and Her Little Tree is a story of love that lasts through hard times and all of life's ups and downs. The blue bird and her tree learn about loyalty and growth through whatever changes might come.

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In these charming volumes, Little Mei asks her grandfather about each of the four different Chinese celebrations represented.He tells her the stories of Nian and the monster Xi (Chinese New Year); Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet who loved his kingdom (Dragon Boat Festival); the Jade Emperor of Heaven who ordered the earth to be destroyed by fire (Lantern Festival); and Hou Yi who shot down the suns (Mid-Autumn Festival). In Celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival Little Mei wants to know why her family members have all come together this evening. Grandpa tells her the story of Hou Yi who shot down the suns and his wife, Chang'e, who floats to the moon. Includes a quick recipe for moon cakes.

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This beautifully illustrated multicultural children's book follows Ming as he discovers the birth of Kung Fu.After Xiao Ming participates in a martial arts exercise at school, his parents take him on a trip to the Shaolin Temple—the birth-place of kung fu—in the central Henan Province of China. The temple is situated in the forests of Shaoshi Mountain, one of the seven mountains of Song Mountains. With a history of over 1,500 years, the grand Shaolin Temple has precious stone-carvings in its many buildings. At the Warrior Monks School (Wuseng Yuan), he sees monks practicing kung fu and jumps in to learn some martial arts skills. He then goes into a stone cave by mistake and meets a monk who turns out to be Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism, according to legend. Bodhidharma takes him onto the mountain to see peach flowers, small birds and big trees. He tells Ming how the Shaolin Temple became the birthplace of Zen in Buddhism.

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A sweet story that highlights a family's bond, even when they're far apart.In China, the Mid-Autumn festival is a time to celebrate and reunite with family. However, Maomao's father is away on a business trip this year, and won't be able to enjoy the holiday with his wife and son.Hoping they can celebrate under the same bright moon despite the distance between them, Maomao asks the moon to deliver a postcard to his father; the moon smiles and promises to deliver the message safely. The moon sets off immediately, using the stars in the sky as her guide. During her journey, the moon makes many friends: swimming alongside the fish, chasing clouds and planes, playing hide-and-seek with a little girl.Finally, she delivers the postcard to Maomao's father and, at last, they are all celebrating under the same moon.Upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival dates:October 1, 2020September 21, 2021September 10, 2022

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A sweet story that shows how one small act of kindness can help those around you. Little Mo and her family always compete in their village's annual lantern competition, but this year she has no new ideas and doesn't know where to begin. Little Mo finds herself wishing for help in front of a lamp post, when a thunderstorm suddenly rolls in. Worried that the rain will put the lamp's flame out, Little Mo uses her own umbrella to cover the lamp. Little did she know, an unexpected recipient of her selfless act would guide Little Mo to victory in the lantern competition in return.Not only does this book emphasize the importance of kindness, but presents the story in both English and Chinese. Children and parents will love learning about Chinese New Year's Lantern Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival.

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Is bamboo a food, a grass, or a wood? One little boy knows that it's all three!Told in both English and Chinese, Bamboo and Me is the story of a little boy whose house was surrounded by many bamboo forests and streams. He lived with bamboo all year round. In spring, he ate delicate and delicious bamboo shoots; in summer, he crafted pliant bamboo stalks into baskets and brooms that he used as tools for fishing; in fall, he used mature bamboo to build kites that flew high and far; in winter, pork cooked with bamboo shoots was the celebratory dish for his family's New Year's Eve dinner. Even the special gift he received from his grandfather on New Year's Eve was made of bamboo. Winsomely told and delightfully illustrated, Bamboo and Me is a tale that will enchant readers of all ages.

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Magical Realism is a genre of writing that has been explored by a variety of writers across cultures and countries. In the novel Gone With the River Mist, Chinese author Yao Emei brings magical elements into the spare lives of four woman living in a misty and sunless town called Wuluo.Little Yu lives with her mother, aunt and grandmother in a small house in a small town. Ma Gu, the matriarch of this clan of women, is a widow and mother of two daughters; Ah-Shan, a single mother after her affair with a married engineer and Ah-Shui, who tried to escaped by running off with a rich city man but finds herself deserted and penniless—and back in Wuluo with her mother, sister and niece. Little Yu doesn't escape unscathed, as she too has been forsaken by a man who promised to support her education and instead discarded her.Gone With the River Mist is an evocative novel that explores the lives of these four woman as they each search for love, life, and dignity. Author Yao Emei cleverly captures the distinctive character of each woman in this tumultuous story about their difficult but impressive journey towards achieving their dreams.

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This collection of contemporary Chinese literature features three short novellas from celebrated Shanghai writer Zhu Xiaolin.In Normandy Rainbow, a mother and daughter find that the path is crooked and often full of temptations that lead them to take detours. One will find her way back, but what will happen to the other? What good can come out of evil? In Auschwitz Wall of Death, a young Chinese journalist is determined to visit the notorious death camp so she can bear witness to the atrocities committed there, but each encounter with a survivor opens her eyes to the indestructible human spirit. Sometimes the power of hope and the depths of despair drives us to act in ways that takes us far away from home. In Platinum Passport, a married couple''s pursuit of happiness abroad in America does not go as planned and they must rely on the kindness of strangers on both sides of the Pacific.

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Featuring beautiful photographs and insightful commentary this Chinese gardening book is a must have for any gardening or zen enthusiast.Celebrating the pleasures of garden living enjoyed by the elite of late imperial China, this book brings together poetry, prose, paintings and prints from imperial China to show the many facets of life and leisure in the Chinese garden. From music to lanterns, from chess to drama, all kinds of cultural activities could be enjoyed in a garden setting, alone or with friends and family. Here, too, the garden owner and his or her companions could appreciate the changing seasons with all their variety of scent, sound and colorful blossom. No wonder that dwelling in a garden was often compared to the carefree life of a Taoist immortal. Chinese Garden Appreciation, compiled by a leading expert in Chinese garden history, incorporates many original translations of classical Chinese poetry and prose.

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Smoothies are a convenient way to combine nutrition and refreshment in your daily life. This smoothie recipe book uses the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to create functional blended tonics using natural super foods for your special body constitutions, conditions, and well-being. Never before have Chinese & Asian super foods been featured and brought to life in this way. Unique blends and ingredients include goji berries, ginger, millet, beans, barley, grains, hawthorn berry, chrysanthemum, rose, green tea, and corn silk tea. All the ingredients have been crafted into over 30 modern-day delicious recipes and smoothies for you to enjoy. The smoothie recipes in this book will highlight the roles of: Nutrition Immune system strength Detoxification Refreshment Digestion aids And more!

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This collection of Zen poems and essays guides readers towards the joy of life.In the 1,600 years that have elapsed since the arrival of Indian Buddhism in China during the Han and Jin dynasties, Buddhist monks and scholars have integrated the essence of Zen Buddhist thought with the classical forms of Chinese literature to create over 30,000 simple, lively poems of deep moral significance. Their authors convey an understanding of Zen, of its practice, or of the knowledge gained through meditation, they promote its philosophical principles and display its interest. The poems are widely known, long lived and much loved. Professor Wu Yansheng has selected 66 classic poems by 54 historical scholars or monks ranging from Tao Yuanming (365–427), Han Shan (7th and 8th centuries), Wang Wei (701–761), to Xu Yun (1840–1959). He provides insights and a detailed introduction to the author of each poem in the hope of guiding the reader towards the realms of Zen and its poetry. These poems represent the highest achievement of Zen poetry. The single qualification for inclusion has been depth of feeling and understanding. Each poem indicates a realm where the duality of opposites has been transcended to achieve spiritual harmony. It shows the way to release and spiritual freedom. It shows a garden of peace of mind that brings restlessness to an end. In opening this book, the reader will… Visit the depths of the realms of Zen and poetry, of life and awakening and of the wisdom of the East. Enter the spiritual world of the enlightened and together with the great Masters enjoy the tranquillity, purity, and ethereal nature of life. Dispel anxiety, purify the soul and live poetically in the world.

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Anyone interested in traditional Chinese painting will find these four volumes useful for self-study. Each of the four volumes teach amateur brush painters to execute the intricacies of Chinese brush painting. Beginning with the separate parts and then progressing to the composition, these volumes feature exquisite illustrations that will enable the learner to pick up the basics as if in a classroom setting.

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Anyone interested in traditional Chinese painting will find these four volumes useful for self-study. Each of the four volumes teach amateur brush painters to execute the intricacies of Chinese brush painting. Beginning with the separate parts and then progressing to the composition, these volumes feature exquisite illustrations that will enable the learner to pick up the basics as if in a classroom setting.

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With readable and enternatining stories from China's past, this book is a unique addition to the field of Chinese history.Open these pages to discover the great figures of Chinese history: Du Yu, the tamer of floods; Qin Shihuang, the First Emperor of China; Confucius, the great philosopher; Sima Qian, the great historian; and the unforgettable villain, Cao Cao. Tales from 5000 Years of Chinese History covers the history of China in an anecdotal fashion that makes each event come alive. Entertaining and informative, this ambitious narrative will enlighten all those who wish to know more about the chronicles of the Middle Kingdom.

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A delicate craft that has been handed down for thousands of years, bead embroidery was popular among the aristocrats in China's imperial courts and is an important part of modern haute couture, wedding dresses, and other accessories. A step-by-step guide to 25 unique embroidery designs, Bead Embroidery Chinese Style incorporates traditional Chinese design elements, including landscape paintings, bird and flower motifs, and famous poems. Projects are both beautiful and useful, and are simple enough for embroidery beginners. Readers will learn about: The different bead embroidery tools, techniques, and materials Over a dozen embroidery stitches for single-bead, multi-bead, free stitches, layered stitches, and more Small-scale embroidery projects, including jewellery, coasters, pouches, and silk scarves More advanced projects, including makeup bags, lamp covers, and wall art. Author Han Yu is one of the world's leading experts on bead embroidery. She studied at the prestigious Ecole Lesage, part of Chanel's Metiers d'art, in Paris, and regularly produces pieces for Shanghai and Paris Fashion Weeks, state dignitaries, and celebrities.

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With fascinating commentary and beautiful artwork this Chinese art history book is allows Westerners to better understand traditional Chinese painting.Applying a comparative approach to Chinese and Western art, this art book examines the characteristics of traditional Chinese art and analyses the distinction between figure painting and portraiture. It examines the scenery in Chinese landscape painting and the sense of poetry within the paintings of flowers and birds so that the reader comes to understand the unique essence of Chinese art and is gradually led towards the evanescent world of spiritual abstraction displayed in Chinese painting. The development of Chinese painting is based upon the pursuit of the conceptual sense (yijing) found in traditional Chinese philosophy and classical literature. Confucianism determined the content of the development of painting and Daoism guided the concept of aestheticism within that development. In the history of Chinese art, every painter who made a contribution was also moral philosopher who sought the realms of the spirit. It would be no exaggeration to say that traditional Chinese painting is a "higher art" that has the functions of both civilizing the person and cultivating the mind. It is not simply a creation designed to satisfy the visual sense or to express individual emotion. It has always been harmonious, tranquil and restrained.

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With dozens of stunning photographs, this modern translation of a Classic text is a masterpiece of classical Chinese gardening.Ji Cheng's great work on garden design, the Yuan Ye or Craft of Gardens, was originally published around 1631 and is the earliest manual of landscape gardening in the Chinese tradition. This is the first complete English translation of Ji Cheng's seminal work. This Chinese gardening book is based on J Cheng's notes and experiences from his career as a garden designer, which he discusses at some length in his introduction> Since architecture is an integral part of the Chinese garden, much of the book is taken up with the design of different types of buildings and the integration of architecture with nature in the garden. Ji Cheng explains the religious and aesthetic principles underlying garden design and the appropriate emotional response to various effects. he then offers a down-to-earth series of instructions about the requirements of different types of sites, building layouts, architectural features, paving, the construction of artificial mountains, selection of rocks, and the use of natural scenery.This delightful book provides not only insights into Chinese gardening but also a unique perspective on Chinese culture and society in the late Ming dynasty. Full notes by the translator explain obscure points and introduce relevant aspects of Chinese culture, while an introduction by Maggie Keswick sets the book firmly in its historical context. Illustrations include not only Ji Cheng's original diagrams but also historical paintings and contemporary photographs of a number of outstanding gardens in the part of East China where Ji Cheng lived and worked.

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The Chinese decorating art, in myriad media—bronze, ceramics, silk, embroidery, lacquer, jade, enamel, gold, and silver—and of carving and sculpture, is an ageless tradition of exquisite craftsmanship. Its evolution since ancient times was driven not only by the expanding use of materials available, but advances in technology. The understated elegance of Chinese aesthetics in arts and crafts, both functional and decorative, has in many ways influenced the development of the Chinese cultural identity, becoming emblematic of Chinese civilization in its worldwide dispersion. This concise history, complete and lucidly accessible, captures this millennia-old tradition, from the Neolithic Age to the late Qing when the last imperial reign unraveled, and the rise and evolution of its various forms, tracing the chronology of Chinese dynasties. Well researched and richly illustrated with more than 200 artefacts, it offers a fascinating journey through the evolution of Chinese aesthetics in the context of changing societies, reflecting the underlying qualities of the Chinese mind and a cultural heritage that endured uninterruptedly through millennia.

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Chinese New Year’ s eve is the most important day of the year for the Chinese people. The whole family sits around the table to celebrate the reunion. However, a long time ago, on this day, people were used to running away from their homes and hiding in the mountains and forests. It turns out that on this day, a huge monster called Xi who lives at the bottom of the ocean comes to the shore to look for food. People are scared that they will be killed by him.There is a little immortal named Nian living in the sky. He is small but mighty. He hears about the worrisome of the people on the earth and decides to come down to protect them from Xi. Nian comes down to the earth and tells everyone that their homes are safe, and he will protect them, but nobody believes that this little immortal can defeat the huge monster. Everyone leaves their home except one disabled blind old lady. Nian helps the old lady decorate her house and cooks a big meal for her. At midnight, Xi comes to the village to look for food. It walks towards the old lady’ s house as it is the only lit place in the village. What can Nian do to force Xi out of the village? Can he save the old lady and all the villagers?

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This book is an ultimate comprehensive guide, not only presenting the step-by-step illustrated instructions but also all the information regarding Chinese knotting. From the origins to developments, functions to decorations, material selections to final products, basic techniques to modified combinations, and traditional crafts to creative designs, author Cao Haimei walks you through every detail.Besides discovering the history and traditions, this book also demonstrates the basic techniques, such as designing, interlacing, tightening, shaping, adjusting, and decorating. With the proper tools and materials, whether it is synthetic or silk cords, glass beads or porcelain charms, gold rings or silver clasps, you can start knotting by following the 100+ projects to make your home decorations, lucky charms, necklaces, bracelets, hair accessories, buttons, brooches and many more.

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In ancient times under the reign of Yellow Emperor (about 2500 B.C.), people kept records by piling stones and tying knots. One day, Cang Jie, a historical official who tied knots to keep records under Yellow Emperor, unexpectedly made a big mistake. Feeling very guilty, he was determined to find out a better way for keeping records. He went back to his hometown to think it over for many days and nights. Inspired by the footprints of animals, he began to carefully observe the sun, moon, stars, mountains, rivers, lakes, seas, as well as birds and animals. At the same time, he traveled around collecting signs created by fishermen, farmers, hunters and soldiers. In the end, he succeeded in creating Chinese characters, which are still widely used today. In this multicultural children's story, kids will find out that there is a story behind every Chinese character. Children will also learn about basic Chinese characters and how to make them.

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