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The Chinese Fairy Book (English Edition): 73 Classic Tales of Gods, Ghosts, Magicians & Animals

The Chinese Fairy Book (English Edition): 73 Classic Tales of Gods, Ghosts, Magicians & Animals

Nursery Tales, Legends of the Gods, Saints and Magicians, Nature and Animal Stories, Ghost Stories and Historic Legends — A Classic Collection Compiled by Sinologist Richard Wilhelm
This is a classic collection of 73 Chinese folk stories, put together by the German sinologist Richard Wilhelm—one of the first Westerners to take Chinese tales seriously as literature. The stories are arranged by type: fairy tales for children, legends of gods and immortals, tales of saints and magicians, stories about animals and nature, ghost stories, historical legends, and literary fairy tales. Some are charming, some are eerie, and some carry a quiet lesson. It is not a modern retelling and it is not a children‘s picture book—it is a broad, readable sampler of the stories Chinese people have told for centuries, gathered by someone who lived in China for twenty-five years. If you want a wide-ranging English collection of Chinese folk tales from a respected early source—rather than a single-author retelling or an academic folklore study—this is it.
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Discover the Magic of China's Oral Tradition

The Chinese Fairy Book offers a rare and captivating glimpse into the heart of Chinese folklore. This edition, part of the esteemed "China Yesterday" series, brings together 73 classic stories that have been passed down through generations-2-5.

Edited by the legendary German sinologist Richard Wilhelm (famous for his translation of the I Ching), this collection goes beyond simple children's tales-5-10. It is a cultural treasure trove that categorizes stories into fascinating themes:

  • Nursery Fairy Tales & Fables: Stories with moral lessons.

  • Legends of the Gods: Myths explaining the creation and celestial beings.

  • Tales of Saints and Magicians: Stories of Taoist immortals and supernatural powers.

  • Ghost Stories: Eerie tales of spirits and the afterlife.

  • Historic Legends: Stories based on real historical figures and events.

  • Nature and Animal Tales: Fables featuring animals and the natural world-2-5.

Why Western Readers Love This Book:

  • Authentic Translation: Translated directly from original Chinese sources by a master sinologist, ensuring cultural accuracy-5.

  • Cultural Insight: Learn about the values, beliefs, and traditions of China through engaging narratives.

  • Historical Context: This book provides a window into how the West first encountered and interpreted Chinese folklore in the early 20th century-7.

  • Beautiful Edition: Published in 2018, this modern edition is an excellent addition to any library or coffee table

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