Old childhood games

Author: Li Youliang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2007-01-01
Features: The 1960s and 1970s were a special historical period. It was also an era of extreme material scarcity. Back then, games were simple, spontaneous, and close to nature. Games like rolling iron rings, throwing sandbags, hopscotch, spinning tops, jumping rope, and riding wooden horses to fight had accompanied generations through joyful childhoods. However, over time, this childhood closely connected to nature gradually faded from people's sight. The lush old locust trees disappeared with the renovation of old cities; the narrow alleyways filled with earthy scents were replaced by smooth, wide asphalt roads; and the figures playing in the river in the summer afternoons were blocked by dense railings. Children living in high-rise buildings, far from the games and natural collectivism of their peers, could only feel a sense of loss and loneliness. Thus, the carefree joy enjoyed during those years of extreme material scarcity became not only beautiful memories for adults but also an unreachable paradise for children today. Through nearly 100 illustrations and text, the author introduces the rules of the games and simple props, restoring one by one the real and natural fragments of childhood. It is hoped that these fragments of memory can bring adults a return to their hearts and allow children to rediscover a touch of childhood fun from the faded memories of their grandparents and parents. May all children have colorful and wonderful childhood memories.