Celestial Scripts: A Voyage Through China's Literary Landscapes
- Mikayla Young
- Jan 14
- 5 min read
China is a country rich in history and culture, producing a fascinating array of literature that reveals diverse stories and unique viewpoints. From timeless classics to modern tales, Chinese literature invites readers to explore societal values, family dynamics, and the changing landscape of contemporary life. This post features a selection of books set in China and penned by Chinese authors across various genres, including children’s literature, young adult fiction, and adult novels.
Quick Links:
Children and Middle Grade Books
Chinese Setting
Genres: Historical Fiction mixed with Nonfiction
Illustrated Novel
Ages: 6+
Did you know that Chinese ships, longer than a football field, sailed thousands of miles and visited over 30 nations 85 years before Columbus discovered America? This is the incredible tale of Admiral Zheng He's seven epic voyages. Starting in 1405, Zheng He commanded over 300 enormous, brightly-painted ships across the South China Sea, the Indian Ocean, and even to Africa's coast. His journeys involved battling pirates, facing storms, and discovering new cultures. At each destination, they traded Chinese goods for treasures, which were presented to China's emperor. "Adventures of the Treasure Fleet" vividly brings this historical narrative to life, engaging readers with its fast-paced storytelling and beautiful illustrations.
Chinese Setting
Genres: Fiction
Picture Book
Ages: 4+
Li Li Wang is celebrating Chinese New Year with her family when her grandparents invite her to join them. Before presenting Li Li with her holiday gift, they share the tale of Ting Ting Wang, Li Li's ancestor, and her journey to becoming a Chinese hero. Li Li attentively listens as her grandparents recount the story of Ting Ting, the monster Nian, and the origins of the Chinese New Year celebration. Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China offers insight into China's most significant holiday, reflects its culture, and demonstrates that girls are equally strong and courageous as boys.
Chinese Setting + Author
Genres: Fantasy Adventure
Graphic Novel
Ages: 6+
When Grace moves to Hong Kong, her main worry is fitting in at her new boarding school. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when an old woman gives her a dragon egg during a field trip. To her amazement, the egg hatches overnight, revealing that the legendary stories of dragons might be true. The dragon possesses incredible powers, putting both itself and Grace in danger from mysterious forces seeking to exploit it. Grace and her friends must uncover a sinister plot that threatens the entire city.
Young Adult Books
Chinese Author
Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, LGBTQ+
Novel
Ages: 16+
Seventeen-year-old Lily Hu finds herself drawn to a question about love between women, a curiosity that blossoms when she and Kathleen Miller visit the Telegraph Club, a lesbian bar. In 1954 America, especially in Chinatown, their love faces danger amid the Red-Scare paranoia threatening Chinese Americans. With the risk of her father's deportation despite his citizenship, Lily and Kath courageously embrace their love, risking everything to let it shine.
Chinese Setting and Author
Genres: Fantasy, Historical Fiction
Novel
Ages: 16+
Rin, a war orphan from Rooster Province, unexpectedly excels in the Keju, a prestigious Empire-wide test, earning a place at the elite Sinegard military school. Her achievement shocks many, given her background and the expectations of her guardians who hoped to use her for their own gains. However, Sinegard presents its own challenges as Rin, a dark-skinned peasant girl, faces discrimination. She discovers a powerful aptitude for shamanism, guided by an eccentric teacher, and learns that ancient gods are still alive. As the threat of the Federation of Mugen looms, potentially sparking a Third Poppy War, Rin's shamanic abilities may be crucial. Yet, aligning with the vengeful Phoenix god, Rin fears the cost of victory may be her own humanity.
Chinese Setting + Author
Genres: Fantasy, Science Fiction
Novel
Ages: 14+
Boys in Huaxia aspire to pair with girls to pilot Chrysalises, giant robots designed to combat mecha aliens beyond the Great Wall, despite the high mortality rate for girls due to mental strain. Eighteen-year-old Zetian volunteers as a concubine-pilot with the intent of avenging her sister's death by assassinating the male pilot responsible. She unexpectedly kills him through their psychic link, emerging unscathed and earning the title of Iron Widow—a feared female pilot who can sacrifice boys to enhance Chrysalises. Paired with Li Shimin, Huaxia's strongest and most controversial pilot, Zetian refuses to be subdued. She leverages their combined power and notoriety to survive repeated assassination attempts, determined to unravel the misogynistic pilot system and prevent further sacrifice of girls.
Adult Books
Chinese Setting and Author
Genres: Historical Fiction
Novel
Ages: 18+
In a remote mountain village, Li-yan and her family live by the rhythms of the tea farming seasons, deeply rooted in Akha traditions. Life changes with the arrival of a stranger driving the first jeep the villagers have ever seen. As one of the few educated girls, Li-yan begins to challenge the customs of her upbringing. After having a child out of wedlock, she defies the tradition of infanticide by leaving her daughter at an orphanage, wrapped in a blanket with a tea cake. Li-yan pursues education and business in the city, while her daughter, Haley, grows up in California with adoptive parents, curious about her heritage. Separated by distance, both Li-yan and Haley seek meaning through Pu’er tea, a symbol of their family's legacy.
Chinese Setting + Author
Genres: Historical Fiction, Classic
Novel
Ages: 18+
In "The Joy Luck Club," four Chinese women, recent immigrants to San Francisco in 1949, form a bond over weekly mahjong games, sharing stories of their pasts in China and their hopes for their daughters. The daughters, initially dismissive of their mothers' tales, eventually discover the profound impact of their heritage on their own lives. Amy Tan masterfully explores the intricate and enduring connections between mothers and daughters, weaving a narrative rich with wit and sensitivity. As secrets unfold, the ties between generations become more complex, revealing the inescapable influence of family history. Tan's storytelling invites readers into a world of emotional depth and cultural mystery.
Immersive Literary Experiences
Exploring Chinese literature opens a gateway to rich stories that extend beyond mere entertainment. By engaging with books set in China and authored by talented writers, readers can gain valuable insights into the complexities of human experience, culture, and identity.
From captivating children’s stories to immersive young adult narratives and thought-provoking adult novels, Chinese literature offers a varied tapestry of voices and perspectives. Each book enhances our understanding and appreciation of a culture that has significantly influenced global narratives.
As you embark on your literary journey, consider immersing yourself in the enchanting world of Chinese literature. Each story acts as a portal, inviting you to understand and appreciate the richness of life in China through the eyes of those who live it.
Happy reading!
Commentaires