Chinese Novels Wiki and TOP 10 List: What is, Popular Genres, Best Works and Authors, Popular Websites.

1. What is Chinese Novel?

Chinese novels are a rich literary tradition deeply rooted in the country's culture and history. These novels encompass a diverse range of genres and themes, providing readers with a unique insight into the Chinese way of life. The concept of Chinese novels goes beyond mere storytelling; it serves as a reflection of Chinese cultural values, societal norms, and historical perspectives.

Chinese novels are not only a form of entertainment but also a means of preserving and transmitting cultural heritage. They often incorporate elements of Chinese philosophy, folklore, and mythology, creating a tapestry of narratives that resonate with readers on both intellectual and emotional levels. The characters, settings, and plots are intricately woven to convey the essence of Chinese identity, making these novels an integral part of the nation's literary landscape.

2. Why People Love Chinese Novels?

There are several reasons why people are drawn to Chinese novels. Firstly, they possess unique traits that captivate readers. Chinese stories often feature intricate and well-developed plots, richly detailed settings, and compelling characters that readers can easily empathize with. Furthermore, these novels frequently explore themes such as love, honor, loyalty, and personal growth, which resonate with readers on an emotional level.

Chinese novels also offer advantages such as providing an escape from reality. Through the vivid storytelling and imaginative worlds depicted in these novels, readers can immerse themselves in different time periods, settings, and cultures. Additionally, Chinese novels often incorporate elements of Chinese history, mythology, and philosophy, allowing readers to gain insights into the rich cultural heritage of China.

3. General Genres of Chinese Novels

Chinese novels encompass a wide array of genres, each catering to different tastes and preferences:

Classic Chinese Novels

Timeless masterpieces such as "Journey to the West" showcase traditional storytelling techniques and philosophical themes.

Modern Urban Novels

These novels focus on contemporary urban life, addressing modern challenges and societal issues.

Romance Novels

Centered around love and relationships, these novels explore the complexities of human emotions.

Chinese Wuxia Novels

Infused with martial arts and chivalry, wuxia novels transport readers to a world of honor, courage, and martial prowess.

Chinese Rural Novels

Highlighting rural life and its unique challenges, these novels capture the essence of Chinese countryside existence.

Chinese Xianxia Novels

A subgenre of Wuxia, concentrating on the cultivation of martial arts and spiritual powers.

Chinese Xuanhuan Novels

A fantastical subgenre of Xianxia, featuring magic, monsters, and supernatural elements.

4. History of Chinese Novels

Chinese literature has a rich and evolving history, tracing its origins from dynastic court archives to the emergence of vernacular fiction during the Ming dynasty. The late Qing period witnessed a surge in fiction writing amidst societal changes, while the May Fourth Movement in the early 20th century marked a pivotal shift towards vernacular prose, challenging traditional styles. The era saw a diverse array of literary forms, including the emergence of the "New Woman" archetype and spoken drama.

Subsequently, literature faced commercialization, marked by trends like scar literature, neo-realism, and the rise of online literature. This shift continued into the 21st century, where online literature plays a pivotal role with millions of readers, reflecting a dynamic transformation in how literature is consumed, making it more inclusive and widely accessible in the digital age. The era also witnessed a global presence for Chinese literature, with authors like Gao Xingjian and Mo Yan receiving international recognition, contributing to the diverse landscape of Chinese literary expression.

5. Top 10 Chinese Novels Recommended

1. The Water Margin

A classic Chinese novel, "Water Margin," also known as "Outlaws of the Marsh," is a tale of rebellion against a corrupt government during the Song Dynasty. Filled with heroic outlaws, this epic explores themes of justice, loyalty, and the struggle against oppression.

2. Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress

Set during China's Cultural Revolution, this enchanting novel by Dai Sijie follows two city boys sent for reeducation in a remote village. Their discovery of forbidden Western classics hidden by the local tailor's daughter becomes a source of escape, sparking a journey of romantic awakening and self-discovery.

3. American Born Chinese

Gene Luen Yang's graphic novel weaves together three tales exploring themes of identity, cultural stereotypes, and acceptance. Through the experiences of Jin Wang, the Monkey King, and Danny, the narrative addresses the challenges of fitting in and the quest for self-acceptance in an American context.

4. The Joy Luck Club

An exploration of Asian American that contribute to a diverse and rich tapestry of experiences, shedding light on the unique perspectives and challenges within the Asian American community.

5. The Three-Body Problem Series

The series serve as a ground-breaking saga of enormous scope and vision. It is a mediation on technology, morality, and extinction.

6. The Longest Day in Chang'an

For residents of Imperial City, what awaits them when the city enjoys its dazzling brilliance and joy of the Lantern Festival is an unexpected catastrophe that will destroy everything. The hostile Turkic tribes, Wolfpack, kidnapping, assassination, rampant flames that devours all. The gears of doom are turning, and the Longest Day in Chang'an begins.

7. China in Ten Words

Yu Hua's nonfiction work offers a unique perspective on China's transformation over recent decades. Through ten common phrases, the book provides insights into the country's economic, social, and cultural changes, offering a candid and illuminating exploration.

8. To Live

Set against the backdrop of China's tumultuous history, this novel follows Fugui's journey from a spoiled landlord's son to a humble farmer, surviving the Civil War and the Cultural Revolution. Yu Hua's powerful narrative reflects on resilience, redemption, and the enduring human spirit.

9. Chinese Cinderella

Adeline Yen Mah's poignant memoir, "Chinese Cinderella," recounts her challenging childhood in China, marked by family neglect and societal discrimination. Despite adversity, she perseveres, ultimately finding success and breaking free from cultural constraints.

10. A Dish Best Served Cold

A revenge-driven tale by author Yuan Gun Gun, this novel follows Ye Fan's quest for justice after being humiliated and driven out of his family. Over ten years, he builds his reputation and seeks retribution, aiming to make the Chu family apologize for their past wrongs.

6. Top 10 Authors of Chinese Novels

1. Shi Nai'an

Shi Nai'an, attributed as the first compiler of "Water Margin," remains a mysterious figure from Suzhou. Believed to be the teacher of Luo Guanzhong, his legacy is intertwined with the classic Chinese novel.

2. Dai Sijie

Born in 1954, Dai Sijie, a former tailor, endured China's Cultural Revolution. His experiences, including reeducation, shaped his work. A filmmaker turned author, he gained international acclaim for "Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress."

3. Gene Luen Yang

A prolific writer and illustrator, Gene Luen Yang champions diverse reading. His graphic novel "American Born Chinese" received accolades, and he serves as a National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, advocating for literary importance.

4. Liu Cixin

Liu Cixin, a Chinese computer engineer and science fiction writer, authored "Three-Body." Liu's fiction focuses primarily on problems such as social inequality, scientific development and ecological limitations that impact humanity.

5. Ha Jin

Ha Jin, pen name of Jin Xuefei, is a Boston University Professor. Writing in English about China post-Tiananmen Square, his works, spanning novels, poetry, and short stories, reflect a nuanced exploration of Chinese society.

6. Yu Hua

Born in 1960, Yu Hua practiced dentistry before turning to fiction. Growing up during the Cultural Revolution, his novels, marked by detailed violence, offer a unique perspective on China's history and societal changes.

7. R.F. Kuang

Marshall Scholar and bestselling author, Rebecca F. Kuang, explores fantasy and historical fiction. Her acclaimed "Poppy War" trilogy reflects her academic background in Chinese Studies and Contemporary Chinese Studies.

8. Amy Tan

Born in 1952, Amy Tan is an influential American writer of Chinese descent. Renowned for novels like "The Joy Luck Club," her works explore complex themes of identity, family, and the Chinese-American experience.

9. Wu Cheng'en

Wu Cheng'en, a Ming Dynasty novelist, is credited with "Journey to the West," one of the Four Great Classical Novels. His pen name, "Sheyang Hermit," is linked to this iconic work.

10. Anchee Min

Born in 1957, Anchee Min started as a movie actress in Shanghai. Her international bestseller "Red Azalea" and historical novels like "Pearl of China" capture her experiences and perspectives, reflecting China's rich history.

7. Where to Read Chinese Novels

Numerous platforms offer a diverse array of Chinese novels for readers to explore. Amazon, a global giant in online retail, provides a vast collection of Chinese literature in various formats, catering to international readers. Goodreads, a book-centric platform, not only offers recommendations but also serves as a community for bibliophiles to discuss and review Chinese novels. Other online platforms like Project Gutenberg and Librivox may host classic Chinese literature in the public domain, allowing readers to delve into historical works. Additionally, websites such as Wuxiaworld specialize in Chinese web novels, providing a platform for fans of the rapidly growing online literature scene in China.

8. FAQs

Q1: How can I explore classic Chinese literature online?

For classic Chinese literature, Project Gutenberg and Librivox host works that are in the public domain, allowing readers to access timeless classics without any cost.

Q2: Are there book clubs or online communities focused on Chinese literature?

Absolutely, platforms like Goodreads have numerous book clubs dedicated to Chinese literature. Joining these communities can offer insightful discussions and recommendations from fellow enthusiasts.

Q3: What are some must-read Chinese novels for beginners?

For beginners, starting with contemporary novels like "The Joy Luck Club" by Amy Tan or "To Live" by Yu Hua can provide a captivating introduction to Chinese literature.