1766 – 1122 B.C.
The Shang Dynasty, one of China’s earliest recorded dynasties, ruled over the Yellow River Valley. Known for their advances in bronze work, they created elaborate tools, weapons, and ritual vessels. The Shang also developed an early form of Chinese writing, seen on oracle bones used for divination. Their society was organized around powerful kings who communicated with the gods and ancestors through rituals. The Shang Dynasty laid the foundation for Chinese culture, politics, and religion, leaving a lasting legacy in ancient Chinese history.
Picture books
The Silk Princess
Charming tale based on ancient Chinese legend
Buy
The Empress and the Silkworm
Illustrated version of the silk origin story
Buy
The Sons of the Dragon King: A Chinese Legend
Beautifully-illustrated story based on a Chinese myth
Buy
An Adventure in the Ancient Shang Dynasty
Story of a Shang Dynasty warrior
Buy
The Magic Brush: A Story of Love, Family, and Chinese Characters
Magical story featuring Chinese characters
Buy
Liu and the Bird: A Journey in Chinese Calligraphy
Fanciful story introducing Chinese characters
Buy
Liang and the Magic Paintbrush
Enchanting story set in ancient China
Buy
The Empty Pot
Charming story about honesty set in ancient China
Buy
The Emperor and the Nightingale
Story about an ancient Chinese emperor learning an important lesson
Buy
Ten Suns: A Chinese Legend by Eric A. Kimmel
Story based on ancient Chinese myth
Buy
Chapter books
Non-fiction books
Eyewitness Ancient China
Comprehensive overview of life in ancient China, with great photos
Buy
If I Were a Kid in Ancient China
Life in ancient China from a kid’s perspective
Buy
Why Did the Shang Write on Turtles?: And Other Questions about the Shang Dynasty
Engaging description of Shang Dynasty China through Q&A
Buy
The Ancient Chinese World
Thorough overview for middle and upper-grade readers
Buy
Daily Life in Shang Dynasty China
Exploration of daily life in Shang Dynasty China
Buy
See Inside Ancient China
Lift-the-flap book with scenes from ancient China
Buy
Life in Ancient China
Life during the first few dynasties
Buy
On the Run in Ancient China
Time travel guide to Ancient China
Buy
Myths and Civilization of the Ancient Chinese
Stories from ancient Chinese mythology
Buy
Fun with Chinese Characters
In-depth but fun lessons about Chinese characters
Buy
