1. 《活着》 by Yu Hua

“To Live” (《活着》) by Yu Hua is a powerful and moving novel that chronicles the life of Fugui, a man who experiences the dramatic changes in China during the 20th century. The book starts with Fugui as a wealthy landowner and follows his transformation through various hardships, including the loss of his family and fortune.

Yu Hua’s writing is simple yet evocative, making it accessible for intermediate Chinese learners. The book provides a rich context for understanding Chinese history and culture, particularly the impact of political movements like the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution. By reading “To Live,” you’ll not only improve your language skills but also gain a deeper understanding of the resilience of the human spirit.

2. 《围城》 by Qian Zhongshu

“Fortress Besieged” (《围城》) by Qian Zhongshu is a satirical novel set in the 1940s that explores the lives of Chinese intellectuals and their romantic entanglements. The protagonist, Fang Hongjian, returns to China after studying abroad and finds himself caught in various personal and professional dilemmas.

Qian Zhongshu’s witty and humorous writing style, combined with his keen observations of human nature, makes “Fortress Besieged” an engaging read. The novel’s dialogue-driven narrative and cultural references provide an excellent opportunity for advanced Chinese learners to practice their reading skills and expand their understanding of idiomatic expressions.

3. 《红楼梦》 by Cao Xueqin

“Dream of the Red Chamber” (《红楼梦》) by Cao Xueqin is one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature. This epic tale, set during the Qing Dynasty, tells the story of the rise and fall of the Jia family, focusing on the love triangle between Jia Baoyu, Lin Daiyu, and Xue Baochai.

Reading “Dream of the Red Chamber” is a challenging yet rewarding experience for advanced Chinese learners. The novel’s rich language, intricate plot, and detailed descriptions of traditional Chinese culture provide a deep dive into the literary and historical context of the time. By immersing yourself in this classic work, you’ll enhance your language skills and gain a profound appreciation for Chinese literary traditions.

4. 《狼图腾》 by Jiang Rong

“Wolf Totem” (《狼图腾》) by Jiang Rong is a semi-autobiographical novel set during the Cultural Revolution. The story follows Chen Zhen, a young student who is sent to the Inner Mongolian grasslands to live among the nomadic herders. There, he develops a fascination with the wolves that inhabit the region and learns valuable lessons about survival, freedom, and the balance of nature.

“Wolf Totem” offers a unique perspective on Chinese culture and history, blending elements of fiction and memoir. The novel’s vivid descriptions of the Mongolian landscape and its exploration of the relationship between humans and nature make it an engaging read for intermediate to advanced Chinese learners. By reading this book, you’ll expand your vocabulary and gain insight into the diverse cultural fabric of China.

5. 《平凡的世界》 by Lu Yao

“Ordinary World” (《平凡的世界》) by Lu Yao is a sweeping epic that spans several decades, depicting the lives of ordinary people in rural China. The novel follows the journeys of two brothers, Sun Shaoping and Sun Shaoan, as they navigate the challenges of poverty, love, and ambition.

Lu Yao’s straightforward and descriptive writing style makes “Ordinary World” accessible for intermediate Chinese learners. The novel’s focus on the everyday struggles and triumphs of its characters provides a relatable and immersive reading experience. By delving into this book, you’ll improve your language skills and gain a deeper understanding of the social and economic changes that have shaped modern China.

6. 《三体》 by Liu Cixin

“The Three-Body Problem” (《三体》) by Liu Cixin is a science fiction novel that has gained international acclaim for its imaginative and thought-provoking narrative. The story begins during the Cultural Revolution, when a secret military project sends signals into space in hopes of making contact with extraterrestrial civilizations. The novel explores the consequences of this contact and the ensuing battle for humanity’s survival.

Liu Cixin’s novel is a thrilling read for advanced Chinese learners, offering a blend of scientific concepts and speculative fiction. The book’s complex plot and richly detailed world-building provide ample opportunities to expand your vocabulary and comprehension skills. By reading “The Three-Body Problem,” you’ll not only improve your Chinese but also engage with a compelling and innovative story that challenges your perception of reality.

7. 《白夜行》 by Keigo Higashino

“Journey Under the Midnight Sun” (《白夜行》) by Keigo Higashino is a gripping mystery novel that follows the intertwined lives of two characters, Ryoji Kirihara and Yukiho Karasawa, over the course of two decades. The story begins with a murder and gradually unravels the complex web of secrets and lies that bind the characters together.

Keigo Higashino’s suspenseful and meticulously crafted narrative makes “Journey Under the Midnight Sun” an engaging read for intermediate to advanced Chinese learners. The novel’s focus on character development and psychological tension provides a rich context for practicing language skills and understanding cultural nuances. By immersing yourself in this mystery, you’ll enhance your reading comprehension and analytical abilities.

8. 《西游记》 by Wu Cheng’en

“Journey to the West” (《西游记》) by Wu Cheng’en is another of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature. This fantastical tale follows the adventures of the monk Xuanzang and his disciples, including the mischievous Monkey King, Sun Wukong, as they journey to India to obtain sacred Buddhist scriptures.

Reading “Journey to the West” is a delightful and enriching experience for advanced Chinese learners. The novel’s imaginative storytelling, vibrant characters, and allegorical themes provide a window into Chinese folklore and religious traditions. By delving into this classic work, you’ll expand your vocabulary, improve your language skills, and gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural and spiritual heritage of China.

Conclusion

Embarking on the journey of learning Chinese through literature is an excellent way to deepen your understanding of the language and culture. The eight books highlighted in this article offer a diverse range of genres, themes, and writing styles, providing a well-rounded reading experience for learners at different proficiency levels. Whether you’re interested in historical epics, contemporary fiction, or science fiction, there’s something on this list for everyone.

As you read these books, remember to take your time and savor the language. Don’t be discouraged by challenging passages or unfamiliar vocabulary; instead, use them as opportunities to learn and grow. Keep a dictionary handy, make notes, and consider joining a book club or discussion group to share your insights and experiences with fellow learners.

By immersing yourself in Chinese literature, you’ll not only enhance your language skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of Chinese culture and history. Happy reading!