A brief introduction to key figures and stories from Chinese mythology.
Beginning with the legend of Pangu bursting out of a cosmic egg and triggering the creation of the world, Nardo guides readers through Chinese stories of lovers, heroes, and mythical beings at a brisk pace. From the tale of moon goddess Chang’e and its connection to the Mid-Autumn Festival to the story of the Four Valiant Dragons who formed China’s largest rivers, the author traces the ways in which myths have shaped and continue to influence Chinese culture and tradition today. The book covers a lot of ground, but the inconsistent and sometimes inaccurate naming of characters may confuse readers who are new to the subject. Additionally, the brevity of each account results in the loss of some of the luster and excitement of the original tales. For example, in the legend of the Cowherd and the Cloud Weaver, the traditional bittersweet ending is omitted, shifting their story from an annual reunion that is observable in the stars today to one that concluded in ancient times. Still, the structure of the book may serve as a useful starting point for students beginning to explore this topic. Supporting images and text bubbles are peppered throughout the title, reinforcing ideas and allowing for quick reference. Adequate as a road map for more in-depth research.