Old City Stories

Author: Lin Haiyin, Guan Weixing (Illustrations)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-04-01
Features: A City of Skies is a classic work by renowned author Lin Haiyin, who has dominated the literary world for over three decades. Since its publication in 1960, it has not only remained a bestseller in Taiwan but also gained a vast readership in mainland China. With her transcendent writing style and enchanting prose, Lin Haiyin observes the joys, sorrows, and complexities of adult life through the innocent eyes of the protagonist, Yingzi. Her writing exudes an indescribable innocence, natural and uncontrived, capturing the intricate emotions of the human world. She seamlessly integrates the scenery of Beijing's southern city into the narrative, providing readers with a clear temporal and spatial backdrop while depicting the vibrant and authentic daily life of the citizens. The entire book is infused with a poetic essence amidst a subtle melancholy, compelling readers to ponder its deeper meanings.
The children's picture book edition of A City of Skies features illustrations by Guan Weixing, one of China's most representative watercolor artists. Using an elegant and poetic style, Guan Weixing integrates his artwork into the story with a unique and penetrating technique. Every detail—clothing, objects, and architecture—is meticulously researched, leaving no room for randomness or ambiguity. The delicate expressions of the characters, the play of light and air, and the rich, harmonious tones create an flawless synergy between text and image.
The picture book edition of A City of Skies was honored with awards at the 1993 and 1994 Bologna International Children's Book Illustration Exhibition, the 1993 Bratislava International Illustration Biennial, and the 1994 Catalonia International Illustration Biennial. From novel to film, from adult book to children's picture book, A City of Skies is a story, a dream. Reading it feels like listening to music, gently touching the heart. The profound meanings hidden within its words move readers deeply, leaving them lingering long after the last page.