Ancient China  •  Arthur Cotterell REFERENCE •  2005 •  HARD COVER  • 64 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) A handsomely illustrated overview of the history, art and accomplishments of ancient China for children 9-12, in the attractive Eyewitness style. Informative text, and hundreds of color photographs and illustrations, introduce China's rich heritage. (CHN50, $15.99)
Ancient China, Archaeology Unlocks the Secrets of China's Past  •  Richard H. Levey  •  Jacqueline Bell ARCHAEOLOGY •  2006 •  HARD COVER  • 64 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) Designed for kids aged ten and up, this thoroughly illustrated guide to the mysteries of ancient China and recent archaeological discoveries includes a time line, glossary, and an interview with a working archaeologist. (CHN364, $17.95)
The Ancient Chinese  •  Virginia Schomp HISTORY •  2005 •  PAPER  • 112 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) A survey of the different groups in Chinese society in the series People of the Ancient World for ages 11-13. With photos and drawings, it covers emperors, philosophers, poets and peasants of the Shang, Zhou, Qin, and Han dynasties. (CHN338, $9.95)
Bound  •  Donna Jo Napoli LITERATURE •  2004 •  HARD COVER  • 192 PAGES • YOUNG ADULTS A retelling of the Cinderella tale, infused with Chinese myth and history. Napoli includes all the familair elements of the original -- evil stepmothers, servitude and lost slippers -- but roots them firmly in 14th century China. The well-told tale has much historical and cultural detail, especially on the topic of gender. Xing Xing, the headstrong independent protagonist, will appeal to young adults. (CHN236, $16.95)
Buddha  •  Demi RELIGION •  1996 •  HARD COVER  • 48 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) Beautiful, intricately detailed, full-color illustrations make this life of the Buddha an excellent choice for children. Demi tells the story of the sheltered upbringing of Indian prince Siddhartha, his first encounter with death and human suffering, and his subsequent search for enlightenment. Intended for children age 7-10. (ASA17, $21.95)
Buddha Stories  •  Demi RELIGION •  1997 •  HARD COVER  • 32 PAGES • YOUNG READERS (Age 4-8) Intended for ages 4 to 8, this book tells 10 of the author's favorite "jakatas," or moral tales of the Buddha. She has sumptuously illustrated the volume in gold printed on deep, dark blue (in the tradition of an ancient Buddhist text). Gorgeous (at least in very good light!), and a compelling introduction to Buddhism for children. (ASA16, $20.00)
The Ch'I-Lin Purse, A Collection of Ancient Chinese Stories  •  Linda Fang LITERATURE •  1997 •  PAPER  • 118 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) An illustrated collection of 10 stories from classic Chinese opera and novels, by professional storyteller Linda Fang. With a pronunciation guide and glossary. (CHN334, $6.95)
China's Bravest Girl: The Legend of Hua Mu Lan  •  Charlie Chin  •  Tomie Arai LITERATURE •  1997 •  PAPER • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) The classic legend of Mu Lan is retold for readers ages 6 to 10 in this bilingual edition. As you probably remember from the Disney animated feature, Mu Lan disguises herself as a man and fights for her family's honor. Narrated in rhyme, it's perfect for reading aloud. Chinese characters are integrated into the full color illustrations. (CHN261, $7.95)
China, A True Book  •  Dennis Brindell Fradin CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  1997 •  PAPER  • 48 PAGES • YOUNG READERS (Age 4-8) A slim, illustrated introduction to China for younger readers (ages 6-8). With a color map and nice selection of photographs showing the landscapes, cities, people, and monuments of China. (CHN135, $6.95)
China, The Land  •  Bobbie Kalman HISTORY •  2000 •  PAPER  • 32 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) An overview of the land and people of China past and present, with color photographs in the Lands, Peoples, and Cultures series for ages 9-12. (CHN339, $7.95)
Chinese Cinderella and the Secret Dragon Society  •  Adeline Yen Mah LITERATURE •  2006 •  PAPER  • 256 PAGES • YOUNG ADULTS In this retelling of the classic children's fairy tale, set during World War II, Cinderella joins the Chinese Resistance after being kicked out of the house by her wicked stepmother. For ages 10 and up. (CHN363, $5.99)
Chinese Fairy Tales and Fantasies  •  Moss Roberts LITERATURE •  1980 •  PAPER  • 258 PAGES • FAMILY Moss Roberts combed 2,500 years of the Chinese folk tradition for this anthology of one hundred short Chinese tales. Decorated with woodcut illustrations throughout, this is another volume in Pantheon's excellent folklore series. (CHN146, $16.00)
Confucius, The Golden Rule  •  Russell Freedman HISTORY •  2002 •  PAPER  • 48 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) An illustrated biography of the philosopher Confucius for readers ages 8 to 12 by Newberry Medal winning author Russell Freedman. Freedman conveys the depth of Confucius' ideas while placing him in his spiritual, cultural and political context. The full page, color illustrations imitate Chinese-style painting and incorporate photographed natural elements. (CHN335, $17.99)
Cowboy on the Steppes  •  Yi Nan Zhang  •  Song Nan Zhang CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  1997 •  HARD COVER  • 32 PAGES • YOUNG READERS (Age 4-8) Artist and children's book author Song Nan Zhang here illustrates his brother Yi's journal of a year among the Mongolian cattle herders. In 1968 Yi Nan Zhang requested the Chinese government's permission to work as a cowboy. His brief diary entries, wonderfully illustrated by Song, conjure up a rough-and-ready world. Children of all ages will find something to love about this short book. (MGL34, $15.95)
Emperor's Silent Army, Terracotta Warriors of Ancient China  •  Jane O'Connor HISTORY •  2002 •  HARD COVER  • 48 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) Visually engaging and with an exciting plot line, this informative book introduces the Terracotta Army of the first Qin emperor to young readers ages 9-12. (CHN182, $17.99)
The Empty Pot  •  Demi LITERATURE •  1991 •  PAPER  • 32 PAGES • YOUNG READERS (Age 4-8) A Chinese emperor announces that his successor will be the child who grows the most beautiful flowers from the seeds the emperor distributes. Ping, a Chinese boy who can make anything grow, is disappointed when nothing comes up in his pot. Ignoring the blossoms brought by other children since he had secretely distributed cooked seeds that would not grow, the emperor rewards Ping for his honesty. Exquisitely illustrated by Demi, this story is geared for readers ages 4-7. (CHN106, $17.95)
Favorite Children's Stories from China and Tibet  •  Koon-chiu Lo  •  Lotta Carswell Hume LITERATURE •  2001 •  HARD COVER  • 120 PAGES • FAMILY A highly recommended collection of 19 Chinese and Tibetan tales, collected and retold by an American doctor's wife who lived in Hunan province from 1906 to 1928. The illustrations (including 12 full-color plates) by Hong Kong-based artist Lo Koon-chiu practically leap off the page. This is a great read for all ages. Originally published in Japan in 1962 (CHN93, $23.95)
The Great Wall of China  •  Leonard Everett Fisher HISTORY •  1995 •  PAPER  • 32 PAGES • YOUNG READERS (Age 4-8) In brief text and bold black-and-white illustrations, this storybook recounts the construction of the Great Wall of China. The simple story is probably best suited for young children (ages 4-8), but kids as old as 12 will want to pore over the illustrations, which are great. (CHN103, $7.99)
Homesick, My Own Story  •  Jean Fritz BIOGRAPHY/MEMOIR •  1999 •  PAPER  • 163 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) A memoir of growing up in turbulent 1920s China, where the author's father was director of the YMCA. It's a candid, wonderfully written account of the country, told from a little girl's perspective. A Newbery Honor book, suitable for ages 9 to 12. (CHN141, $5.99)
House of Sixty Fathers  •  Meindert De Jong  •  Maurice Sendak LITERATURE •  1987 •  PAPER  • 189 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) This classic children's novel is set in China during the Japanese invasion as a young boy makes a journey to reunite with his family. It's a plucky, humane tale that commemorates a terrible episode in Chinese history. A Newbery Honor Book, illustrated by Maurice Sendak and written for kids ages 9-12. (CHN119, $5.95)
Kids Around the World, We Live in China  •  Pascal Pilon  •  Elisabeth Thomas  •  Sophie Duffet CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  2006 •  HARD COVER  • 56 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) This endearing, colorful series introduces kids to the culture and customs of a country through the eyes of the young people who live there. "We Live in China" focuses on a girl from Beijing, a girl from the countryside and a boy from Tibet. Geared for 8-12 year olds. (CHN366, $15.95)
Life In Ancient China  •  Paul C. Challen HISTORY •  2004 •  PAPER  • 32 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) An overview of the history, geography, people, arts and culture of ancient China for grades 5-7. Also includes colorful photographs, illustrations, time lines, artwork, and diagrams with captions. (CHN340, $8.95)
Little Green, Growing Up During the Chinese Cultural Revolution  •  Chun Yu BIOGRAPHY/MEMOIR •  2005 •  HARD COVER  • 128 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) A poetic reflection on China's Cultural Revolution told from a child's perspective. It's a good introduction to China's recent history for young adults or mature middle readers. Helpfully, the author includes an epilogue that puts her family story in historical context along with small family photographs. (CHN239, $15.95)
Lon Po Po, A Red-Riding Hood Story from China  •  Ed Young LITERATURE •  1996 •  PAPER  • 32 PAGES • YOUNG READERS (Age 4-8) This powerfully illustrated Chinese variant on the story of Red Riding Hood features three sisters who outsmart Lon Po Po, or Granny Wolf, who is disguised as the girls' grandmother. Resembling the look of Chinese decorative panels, Young's outstanding watercolor and pastel illustrations cleverly convey the terror of this favorite folktale. Winner of the 1990 Caldecott medal. For readers ages 5-9. (CHN102, $6.99)
The Magical Monkey King, Mischief in Heaven  •  Youshan Tang Ji-Li Jiang LITERATURE •  2004 •  PAPER  • 113 PAGES • FAMILY A retelling of 18 classic tales featuring the rascally and omnipresent Monkey King. With accompanying black and white illustrations. For ages 7-10. (CHN344, $8.95)
Marco Polo for Kids, His Marvelous Journey to China  •  Janis Herbert HISTORY •  2001 •  PAPER  • 144 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) This is a great activity book introducing kids to the cultures and terrain of Central Asia. Following "The Travels" from Venice to China, we meet the nomadic peoples of the steppes, learn Persian and ancient Mongol, practice qigong and yoga and much more. With 21 activities, a well-written narrative and nice archival illustrations, it's a great book for kids ages 9-12. (CHN189, $16.95)
Moonbeams, Dumplings & Dragon Boats  •  Leslie Swartz  •  Nina Simonds  •  Meilo So CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  2002 •  HARD COVER  • 80 PAGES • YOUNG READERS (Age 4-8) With this book of activities, recipes and stories, any day can be a Chinese festival day -- and actual festival days can be more festive. Included are directions for making moon cakes (essential to the Moon Festival), paper lanterns (for the Lantern Festival), dragon boats (the Dragon Boat Festival) and much more. Ages 4-8. Co-written by a cookbook writer and an educator and published by the Boston Children's Museum. (CHN183, $21.00)
Mulan  •  Tony Bancroft CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  2004 •  DVD • FAMILY In this animated Disney film of the classic Chinese tale, Mulan, a young Chinese girl, disguises herself as a boy and goes to war against the Huns to help her family. With the voices of Harvey Fierstein and Eddie Murphy. Run time of 88 minutes. (CHN324, $29.99)
Red Eggs and Dragon Boats, Celebrating Chinese Festivals  •  Carol Stepanchuk CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  1994 •  HARD COVER  • 48 PAGES • YOUNG READERS (Age 4-8) An illustrated introduction to five traditional Chinese celebrations, including the Lantern Festival, the Clear Brightness Festival, a Full Month Red Egg and Ginger Party, the Dragon Boat Festival and the Moon Festival. Each festival's description is accompanied by recipes and colorful paintings by Chinese folk artists. For grades 3-6. (CHN343, $16.95)
Red Scarf Girl, A Memoir of the Cultural Revolution  •  Ji-Li Jiang  •  David Henry Hwang BIOGRAPHY/MEMOIR •  1998 •  PAPER  • 285 PAGES • YOUNG ADULTS An engrossing memoir of Ji-Li Jiang's experiences as a teenager during Chairman Mao's Cultural Revolution. A personal narrative of the atrocities committed during Cultural Revolution, it's also a suspenseful story of Ji-Li's bravery and loyalty to her family when they are humiliated because her deceased grandfather was once a landlord. For readers ages 12 and up. (CHN104, $6.99)
The Seven Chinese Brothers  •  Margaret Mahy  •  Jean and Mou-sien Tseng LITERATURE •  1992 •  PAPER  • 36 PAGES • YOUNG READERS (Age 4-8) Seven brothers rebel against a wicked emperor by using supernatural powers in this charming and witty book by the acclaimed children's author. Features beautiful drawings depicting historic China. An ALA notable book. (CHN375, $6.99)
The Story About Ping  •  Marjorie Flack  •  Kurt Wiese LITERATURE •  1971 •  PAPER  • 32 PAGES • YOUNG READERS (Age 4-8) For readers ages 4-7, this classic tale, first published in 1933, tells the story of a duckling's adventures along the Yangtze River. With delightful illustrations. (CHN101, $5.99)
Sweet and Sour, Tales from China  •  Carol Kendall  •  Yao-Wen Li LITERATURE •  1990 •  PAPER  • 112 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) A collection of 24 folk tales from China, spanning many eras and a variety of literary styles. (CHN370, $7.95)
The Year of the Panda  •  Miriam Schlein  •  Kam Mak LITERATURE •  1992 •  PAPER  • 82 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) Rich in detail of the plight and rescue of the giant panda, this chapter book is written for readers 8-12. In it ten-year-old Lu Yi and his father find an orphaned da xiong mao (giant panda) and nurse it back to health. A government messenger hears of the discovery and invites Lu Yi to accompany the panda to the Panda Rescue Center. (CHN105, $4.99)
Yeh-Shen, A Cinderella Story from China  •  Ed Young  •  Ai-Ling Louie LITERATURE •  1982 •  PAPER  • 31 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) A southern Chinese Cinderella story, familiar yet distinctly foreign in its details. It's a beautiful book, based on T'ang-era (618-907 A.D.) manuscripts. Unusually for a children's book, it keeps its distance from the reader. The heroine slips, swirls and ducks in and out of Ed Young's elusive, impressionistic illustrations, so that by book's end she is almost as much of a cipher as she was on the book's first page. Although young children may lose interest due to this lack of characterization, older readers may appreciate the extra room for imagination. (CHN107, $16.99)
The Yellow River  •  Kim Dramer NATURAL HISTORY •  2001 •  PAPER  • 64 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) A volume in the "Watts Library" series of reference tools for middle schoolers (ages 7-10), this slim illustrated book introduces the geological, natural and cultural history of the Yellow River. (CHN162, $8.95)
Young Fu of the Upper Yangtze  •  Elizabeth Foreman Lewis LITERATURE •  2007 •  PAPER  • 266 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) This 1933 Newbery Medal winner evokes peasant life in urban 1920's China. Young Fu is a 13-year-old country bumpkin who becomes an apprentice coppersmith in the dangerous, semi-feudal city of Chunking. As Young Fu learns to live by his wits, he also comes to love urban life. The author was an American missionary, but her Western bias is only occasionally in evidence, and the book remains a classic for readers 9 to 12. (CHN148, $17.95)
Zen Shorts  •  John J Muth RELIGION •  2005 •  HARD COVER  • 40 PAGES • YOUNG READERS (Age 4-8) A charming introduction to the Zen tradition for young readers accompanied by beautiful watercolor illustrations. When Stillwell, a giant panda bear, moves next door he shares traditional Buddhist and Taoist tales with his three curious young neighbors. His stories introduce the virtues of generosity, the nature of luck, and the dangers of anger. (CHN268, $17.99)