[明]施耐庵 童彩

About the Author

Shi Nai'an (施耐庵), a renowned Chinese novelist from the Ming Dynasty, is celebrated for his masterful depiction of heroism, loyalty, and social injustice in classical literature. Born in the late Yuan or early Ming period, Shi drew from historical events and folklore to craft epic narratives that capture the spirit of rebellion and camaraderie among outlaws. His seminal work, Water Margin (Water Purse Classic, Youth Easy-to-Read Popular Edition / One of China's Four Great Classical Novels), chronicles the exploits of 108 bandit heroes who band together against corrupt officials, embodying the timeless struggle between the oppressed and the powerful. Though biographical details remain scarce, Shi's influence endures through his vivid storytelling and profound insights into human nature, making his tales accessible and inspiring for generations of readers, including modern youth adaptations that simplify the language while preserving the essence of this cornerstone of Chinese culture.