"For over two thousand years, the Chinese have used short sayings known as chengyu to sum up practical wisdom and ethical principles. These sayings are usually associated with a traditional story passed down by word of mouth over the centuries, that illustrates what the saying means. Young or old, rich or poor, virtually all Chinese people are familiar with these sayings and the lessons they convey." "Gathered in this volume are twenty-four of the most popular chengyu and the stories based on them, each beautifully illustrated by one of China's foremost painters, Ji Ruoxiao. Included as well are background notes on each story and a brief overview of China's principal religious traditions, along with a map and a chronology. Delightfully simple, often humorous, and always wise, the stories collected in Harmony will enchant readers of all ages."--BOOK JACKET.