Shang Dynasty

1766 – 1122 B.C.

The Shang Dynasty was one of early China’s first recorded civilizations, centered in the Yellow River Valley. Known for bronze work and oracle-bone writing, the Shang ruled through powerful kings and rituals that shaped later Chinese culture and beliefs.

Picture books

The Silk Princess

Charming tale based on ancient Chinese legend

The Empress and the Silkworm

Illustrated version of the silk origin story

The Sons of the Dragon King: A Chinese Legend

Beautifully-illustrated story based on a Chinese myth

An Adventure in the Ancient Shang Dynasty

Story of a Shang Dynasty warrior

The Magic Brush: A Story of Love, Family, and Chinese Characters

Magical story featuring Chinese characters

Liang and the Magic Paintbrush

Enchanting story set in ancient China

The Empty Pot

Charming story about honesty set in ancient China

The Emperor and the Nightingale

Story about an ancient Chinese emperor learning an important lesson

Liu and the Bird: A Journey in Chinese Calligraphy

Fanciful story introducing Chinese characters

Ten Suns: A Chinese Legend

Story based on ancient Chinese myth

Chapter books and novels

The Chi-Lin Purse

Story collection from Ancient China

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon

Fantasy story inspired by ancient Chinese folklore

Yu the Great: Conquering the Flood

Graphic novel adaptation of an ancient Chinese legend

Non-fiction books

Eyewitness Ancient China

Comprehensive overview of life in ancient China, with great photos

The Ancient Chinese World

Thorough overview for middle and upper-grade readers

On the Run in Ancient China

Time travel guide to Ancient China

If I Were a Kid in Ancient China

Life in ancient China from a kid's perspective

Why Did the Shang Write on Turtles? And Other Questions about the Shang Dynasty

Engaging description of Shang Dynasty China through Q&A

Daily Life in Shang Dynasty China

Exploration of daily life in Shang Dynasty China

See Inside Ancient China

Lift-the-flap book with scenes from ancient China

Myths and Civilization of the Ancient Chinese

Stories from ancient Chinese mythology

Life in Ancient China

Life during the first few dynasties

Fun with Chinese Characters

In-depth but fun lessons about Chinese characters

Activities

My First Book of Chinese Calligraphy

Hands-on introduction to Chinese Calligraphy

Great Ancient China Projects You Can Build Yourself

Projects inspired by Ancient China

Step Into the Chinese Empire

Activities and information about Ancient China

Google Sites

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