Journey to the West (Upper and Lower)

Author: Wu Cheng'en (Ming Dynasty)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-02-01
Features: The Journey to the West is an outstanding romantic fantasy novel in the history of Chinese literature. It tells the story of how figures like Sun Wukong protect Tang Sanzang on his journey to the West to retrieve sacred scriptures, defeating demons and overcoming obstacles along the way. With vivid brushwork, the novel creates distinct and beloved mythological heroes such as Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, depicting many romantic and enchanting, highly moving magical tales. At the same time, it subtly reflects the social and historical conditions of the time, as well as progressive political ideals. The Journey to the West is imaginative, with a wondrous and engaging plot, a grand yet rigorous structure, and humorous and witty language. It stands as the pinnacle of ancient Chinese fantasy novels. The English translation of this book was completed by Professor Janel, a British sinologist, and is considered the closest translation to the original.