7 Top Picks: Chinese Novel Translated in English

For avid bookworms, Chinese novels offer a vast and captivating landscape worth exploring. It is not a secret that many beloved stories in other Asian cultures owe a debt to Chinese classic novels. Much Chinese literature delves into themes of love, loss, loyalty, family, and the pursuit of knowledge, giving you fresh perspectives on these universal struggles combined with a rich cultural context that stimulates your imagination.

Reasons to Love Chinese Novels

So, if you're an avid reader seeking a new adventure, be sure to explore the realm of Chinese novels. The specific literature offers many exceptional things to feed your knowledge hunger. Here are a few reasons why you should try reading at least one Chinese novel.

1. Surprising Exploration

Reading Chinese novels can ignite a lifelong passion for Chinese culture. The stories can inspire further exploration of Chinese history, philosophy, and art, providing access to a world of knowledge and wonder. Besides, reading Chinese novels can also lead you to a more comprehensive understanding of their context and literary traditions.

2. A Depth Universal Theme

Though set in different eras and locations, Chinese novels grapple with timeless human experiences. Many Chinese novels delve into themes of love, loss, loyalty, family, and the pursuit of knowledge, offering new views on these universal challenges.

3. Unique Storytelling

Chinese literature has a rich tradition with unique narrative structures and stylistic elements. Explore the use of symbolism, classical Chinese prose, and the episodic novel format. This way, you’ll gain more knowledge about cultural differences through novels.

4. Broad Language Knowledge

Chinese novels continue to embody a poetic quality, offering evocative imagery, rich descriptions, and beautiful language in translation. Skilled translators adeptly preserve the essence of the original text, allowing readers to appreciate the beauty of the prose.

5. The Beauty of Martial Arts

For fans of action-packed stories, Wuxia novels provide a plethora of options, as they frequently feature expert warriors employing various fighting styles and philosophies. Among the several Wuxia novel titles, "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" and "The Legends of the Condor Heroes" can be excellent choices because they deliver engaging combat sequences and epic battles, making reading more entertaining.

7 Must Read Chinese Novel

Reading a Chinese novel for the first time can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the language. But rest assured, many have been translated into English. The effort of translating an Asian novel into English has been quite impeccable now, which makes them easy to understand for many avid bookworms. Here are seven Chinese novels that are worth a try.

1. Love in a Fallen City by Eileen Chang

Love in a Fallen City by Eileen Chang has been translated into English. This Chinese novella beautifully portrays resilience and human connection in a crumbling world. It is set in Shanghai and Hong Kong on the brink of collapse, where an unlikely love story blossoms amidst the chaos. The characters are portrayed as flawed and complex. Many struggle with societal expectations and the longing for connection. Their journey showcases a moving exploration of love's power to offer solace and hope, even in the most desperate situations.

2. Chronicle of a Blood Merchant by Yu Hua

This Chinese novel is considered a classic by many. It tells a story that revolves around family, resilience, and the human spirit. Xu Sanguan is portrayed as a person who frequently sacrifices and lives in struggle. The characterization might resonate deeply, reminding us of the lengths we go to for those we love and the unexpected ways we find strength in the face of adversity.

3. The Last Quarter of the Moon by Chi Zijian

Originally published in 2005, The Last Quarter of the Moon tells a story that helps you appreciate more about culture. The author immerses the reader in the life of a nomadic reindeer herding tribe through the eyes of the main character. You will witness the beauty of their tight-knit community, the challenging realities of their nomadic lifestyle, and their deep reverence for the natural world.

4. I Live in the Slums by Can Xue

If you enjoy avant-garde-themed stories, I Live in the Slums by Can Xue could be one of the best Chinese novels to read. Can Xue opens the doors to a world where rats engage in philosophical discussions, physical bodies morph unexpectedly, and the lines between reality and fantasy blur. The characters grapple with isolation, the search for meaning in a seemingly absurd world, and the complexities of human connection.

5. The Chilli Bean Paste Clan by Yan Ge

Set in the fictional world of West China, this Chinese novel talks about a fiery family drama served with a side of social commentary. Each sibling in the story brings their own baggage to the table, exposing long-held resentments and the sacrifices made on the path to success. To enhance the narrative, the author integrates clever dialogue and astute observations about modern China while also exploring intricate family dynamics.

6. To Live by Yu Hua

To Live is another classic that was created by Yu Hua. You will experience the history of Chinese civilization development spanning from 1930 to 1960. This 200-page novel chronicles the struggles of people over decades, from pre-revolutionary times to the Cultural Revolution and beyond, encompassing poverty, war, and political upheaval. To Live by Yu Hua confronts the harsh realities of life under a tumultuous regime without flinching.

7. A Hero Born by Jin Yong

For Chinese martial arts lovers, this book is a must-read. It narrates the tale of a young orphan brought up in the Mongolian steppes. Fate brings him back to his native China, where he meets legendary martial arts masters and begins a journey of self-discovery. Get ready for exciting battles, challenging training routines, and the quest for supreme fighting abilities.

Why Asian Literature Needs English Translation

Asian literature encompasses a wide range of genres and voices, but many readers worldwide are unable to access this rich tapestry of stories due to the language barrier. Translation plays a vital role in expanding the audience for Asian literature, acting as a crucial bridge. Through the dedication of skilled translators, these captivating narratives overcome language barriers, reaching a global audience and fostering a deeper appreciation for Asian cultures. Consider engaging with Digital-Trans Asia as your translation partner. At Digital-Trans Asia, we provide a skilled team of translators and localization experts to assist you in achieving your goals. By collaborating with us, you can ensure that your story resonates deeply with global audiences, helping your literary masterpiece achieve remarkable success.