The monsters are not created by the author; on the contrary, they are depicted in China's ancient books, such as Shiji (Records of the Grand Historian), Chunqiu (Spring and Autumn Annals), and Soushen Ji (The Search of the Sacred), to name just a few.

 

This is a fun and educational fantasy fiction series. The story is full of creativity and colorful illustrations. The author, Chang Yu, uses a very special way to introduce the special characteristics of the history, culture and artwork of the Forbidden City to the young readers.

 

Taking readers on schoolgirl Li Xiaoyu's adventures in the Forbidden City, the book describes the daily life and surreal stories of monsters and animals there. It has twists and turns but has a humorous plot, integrating fictional with real scenes and life. The book is innovative in theme and vivid in words.

 

 

Now her monster stories are beloved by Chinese children, and many take the books as guides to look for monsters in the Forbidden City.

 

Seeing the phenomenon, Chang is happy. "I hope they can know the monsters that I know, their stories and their specialities," said Chang. “Maybe they are willing to know more about Chinese historical culture in the future."