Forget everything you think you know about mythology from school. Myths and Legends of China isn't a novel with a single plot, but a massive collection of stories that form the backbone of Chinese cultural imagination. E.T.C. Werner, a British diplomat who lived in China for decades, acted like a literary archaeologist. He gathered tales about the creation of the world by the giant Pan Gu, the goddess Nüwa who mended the sky, and the elaborate celestial court of the Jade Emperor, which operates with all the rules and paperwork of an ancient imperial government.

The Story

There's no linear plot here. Instead, Werner organizes the book by themes, guiding you through different layers of belief. You'll meet the major gods and immortals, learn about mythical beasts like the qilin and the fox spirits, and dive into stories that explain natural phenomena and human virtues. It covers everything from cosmic beginnings to local folk tales about clever heroes and tragic love. The "story" is really the story of a people trying to make sense of their world through narrative.

Why You Should Read It

What makes this book special is its sheer scope and the unique perspective it offers. Chinese mythology isn't just about powerful beings throwing lightning bolts; it's often about balance, harmony, and moral order. You'll find stories where kindness to an animal is rewarded generations later, or where a flood is controlled through wisdom and engineering, not just brute force. Reading it, you start to see the values—filial piety, respect for authority, the importance of knowledge—woven directly into the fabric of the fantastical. It's a mindset as fascinating as the stories themselves.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for curious readers who love world-building, fantasy fans looking for inspiration beyond European castles, and anyone interested in history or culture. Be warned: it's a dense, early-20th-century compilation, so it reads more like a fascinating reference book than a page-turning novel. But if you dip into a few stories at a time, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view into an ancient, complex, and utterly captivating world. It's a foundational text that opens a door.