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Aurora Publishing House emphasizes unique themes and realism, particularly in its children’s literature program. One notable work is Shu Huibo’s Hearing the Light, which draws inspiration from the life of blind violinist Zhang Zheyuan, highlighting how he navigates his world through music. This title has resonated with readers, resulting in over 36,000 copies sold. Another poignant addition is Xiaomi’s Green Sun, Yellow Sea, telling the story of a teenager with color vision deficiency who discovers the joy of painting.
“These distinctive narratives illustrate how everyday individuals—who may face challenges—overcome obstacles to express themselves and chase their aspirations,” comments Yang Xuheng, the president of Aurora, which has been operating since 1985.
Yang aims to motivate children and future generations. He draws inspiration from China’s successful Lunar Exploration Program and the aerospace sector, which prompted the release of Ge Jing’s Dreams of the Universe and Zeng Youqing’s Blooming Rose in Space, both highlighting the achievements of female astronauts.
Situated in Yunnan, the most culturally and geographically diverse province in China, Aurora’s location offers rich storytelling potential. The editorial team has access to narratives from at least 25 minority groups, including the Bai, Dai, Hani, Hui, Miao, and Na-Khi, with the province’s proximity to Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam further enriching their content.
“Our motto, ‘telling Yunnan stories well,’ reflects this dynamic,” Yang explains. The company has recently released Liu Jiachen’s The Last 10 Meters, which captures the relentless spirit of engineers working on the 14.4-kilometer Dazhushan Tunnel for the China-Myanmar Railway, completed over 12 years. Additionally, the publishing house has produced picture books inspired by Yunnan’s ethnic myths, such as Liao Xiaoqin’s Zhige Alu! Zhige Alu! Zhige Alu! and He Xiaomei’s Princess Dark Night and Prince Daylight.
Another significant title is Deng Xi’s To Abei, a narrative steeped in cultural heritage that tells the story of a girl’s journey to recover from PTSD through learning traditional Li brocade weaving techniques from her grandmother, reflecting a 3,000-year-old tradition of the Li ethnic group.
The journey of a herd of Asian elephants, which spent 17 months traveling 1,300 kilometers before returning to their natural habitat in southeastern Yunnan, is documented in Liu Hu’s Home. This book advocates for the harmonious relationship between humans and nature, while Gungun’s Trip Journal, authored by Liu Jiachen, incorporates a range of pop science themes.
“Last year, we introduced Li Siping’s Peacock Dam, My Home, which explores how Yunnan’s diverse ethnic communities and scientists collaborate on nature reserve projects,” Yang reveals. “Moving forward, we are committed to exploring the province’s rich natural, cultural, and historical heritage to offer distinctive titles for children both in China and abroad.”
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A version of this article appeared in the 03/24/2025 issue of Publishers Weekly under the headline: Aurora Publishing House
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