Books of the month: May 2024
Happiness in Being Ordinary: How Education Empowers Happiness
Published by Foreign Languages Press, "Happiness in Being Ordinary: How Education Empowers Happiness" tells the story of a vocational school founded by Yao Li in 2005. The school aims to provide free vocational education to economically disadvantaged young people in China.
The book explores how vocational schools can integrate social education resources, adopt diverse teaching methods, and focus on the comprehensive and sustainable development of students. It also addresses how to guide students in pursuing career development amidst digital transformation.
Wuyuan: The Biography
Wuyuan, an ancient county in Jiangxi province, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. "Wuyuan: The Biography," published by Foreign Languages Press, introduces readers to the rich history and vibrant culture of what is often hailed as "China's most beautiful countryside." The book portrays Wuyuan's development and rural revitalization through engaging historical narratives and captivating images.
The book marks the inaugural installment in the "Chinese City Biography" series by CICG, following the organization's flagship "Biographies of Silk Road Cities" series.
Foshan: The Biography
Published by Foreign Languages Press, "Foshan: The Biography" explores the history and cultural heritage of Foshan, a major economic powerhouse in Guangdong province and a significant site along the Belt and Road route.
The book delves into various aspects of the city, such as its famous Shiwan ceramics, martial arts traditions, and local craftsmanship, revealing the unique charm of Foshan.
300 Years of Ming Dynasty
Published by the New World Press, "300 Years of Ming Dynasty" chronicles the history of the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), focusing on its significant historical events. The book covers a range of topics such as philosophy, urban culture, bureaucratic politics, political conflicts, and economic development, ultimately revealing the fundamental reasons behind the Ming dynasty's downfall.
Slow Horses
"Slow Horses" is a novel set within the British intelligence agency MI5 and follows a group of disgraced agents relegated to a low-priority department called "Slough House." Despite being seen as failures, they find a chance for redemption when a kidnapping case arises. The story highlights their courage and resourcefulness.
The book's author, Mick Herron, praised as a successor to John le Carré, offers a compelling look at marginalized workers and explores themes of power, courage, and self-worth.
The Chinese edition is published by New Star Press.
A Cultural History of Western Fashion
"A Cultural History of Western Fashion" views fashion as a cultural barometer, offering an in-depth analysis of the significant transformations in fashion from the mid-19th century to the 21st century. It demonstrates how clothing styles have evolved in response to major social changes.
Organized chronologically into 11 chapters, the book delves deeply into the interdisciplinary nature of fashion, revealing the evolution of clothing design and other visual arts over the past 150 years. It also explores the connections between fashion and various fields such as art, music, politics, and mass media.
The Chinese edition of the book is published by China Pictorial Press.
I Love Science Experiments
Published by China Pictorial Press, the "I Love Science Experiments" series includes six volumes: "Amazing Electromagnetism," "Interesting Chemistry," "Mysterious Light," "Wonderful Geography," "Changing Weather," and "Crazy Water." Each book explains different natural phenomena and principles through engaging experiments.
Featuring exquisite illustrations and categorized experiment charts, these books help children understand science more effectively. The supplementary videos provide a visual learning experience, further igniting children's enthusiasm for science.
Chinese Classical Novels in Comic Strips
The "Chinese Classical Novels in Comic Strips" series adapts China's Four Great Classical Novels—"Journey to the West," "Water Margin," "Romance of the Three Kingdoms," and "Dream of the Red Chamber"—into accessible and easy-to-understand language while preserving their essence.
Published by Dolphin Books, this series features the work of numerous veteran comic artists. Using traditional line-drawing techniques, these artists vividly bring classic scenes from the novels to life on the pages, capturing their core elements in a lively and realistic manner.
Yiyi's Cultural Journey
Published by Blossom Press, "Yiyi's Cultural Journey" is a series of four illustrated books that spotlight iconic elements of Chinese culture, including porcelain, rice, tea, and silk, aiming to inspire children's understanding and appreciation of traditional Chinese culture.
These books also include Tang poetry and English learning, blending educational content with fun and engaging activities.
Here Comes Gao Dingding!
Published by Blossom Press, the "Here Comes Gao Dingding!" series is designed to address the growth anxieties of lower-grade students, helping them navigate the significant physical and emotional changes as they transition from kindergarten to first grade.
Written by Zhang Ling'er, winner of the Bing Xin Children's Literature Award, this series recounts various amusing incidents involving Gao Dingding in the first grade. It covers topics such as preschool preparation, habit formation, and social skills, aiming to help children overcome various challenges of starting school and quickly adapt to primary school life.