March 2023 MBR The Mythology Shelf

The Mythology Shelf

The Chinese Myths
Tao Tao Liu
Thames & Hudson, Inc.
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110-0017
www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9780500252383, $25.95, HC, 224pp

https://www.amazon.com/Chinese-Myths-Guide-Gods-Legends/dp/0500252386

Synopsis: With the publication of "The Chinese Myths: A Guide to the Gods and Legends", Professor Tao Tao Liu provides the reader with a concise and entertaining guide to the complex tradition of Chinese mythology. While many around the world are familiar with some aspects of Chinese myth (through Chinese New Year festivities or the classic adventures of the Monkey King in Journey to the West) not everyone understands the richness of Chinese mythology, especially as influenced by Daoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism.

Offering more than a simple overview of Chinese mythology, "The Chinese Myths" not only retells the ancient stories but also considers their place within the patterns of Chinese religions, culture, and history. An expert on the subject, Professor Tao Tao Liu introduces an intriguing cast of gods, goddesses, dragons, and monks, including the ancient hero Yi the Archer, who shot suns out of the sky to save humanity from a drought; Guanyin, the goddess of mercy and compassion, to whom there are temples dedicated all over East Asia; and Madame White Snake, a water snake spirit in the guise of a mysterious widow, her story adapted into countless films and operas.

Critique: Exquisitely illustrated with blue/white images throughout, "The Chinese Myths: A Guide to the Gods and Legends" is very special volume is for anyone interested in China or mythology, as knowing China's myths allows readers to understand and appreciate its culture in a new light. Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, "The Chinese Myths: A Guide to the Gods and Legends" is especially and particularly recommended as a core addition to personal, professional, community, and academic library Myth/Folklore collections in general, and supplemental curriculum Chinese Mythology studies lists in particular.

Editorial Note: Tao Tao Liu (https://www.orinst.ox.ac.uk/people/taotao-liu) is a retired senior lecturer in Chinese literature in the faculty of Oriental Studies, University of Oxford.

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