Nobel Prize in Literature Winners Rated 9.0 or Higher 9.0分以上诺贝尔文学奖作品

1. 1 权 The Key to Power: A History of World Taxation 权力的钥匙：世界税收史 Dominic Frisby多米尼克·弗里斯比Historical246k WordsCompleted The author of this book is Dominic Frisby, a renowned British writer on economic theory. The book offers a penetrating account and outlook on the origins, development, and present state of taxation, an essential element woven throughout human civilization and history, from the dawn of civilization to the present day. Taxation is a System as old as civilization itself. From a fresh perspective and in witty prose, the author explores the origins, development, and current state of taxation. Through 184Reads9.2Score106Shelves

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2. 2 天EN The Heavenly Eye Feng Shui Master 天眼风水师 Light of the Dao道之光Urban1.3M WordsCompleted [A feng shui novel] [Featuring feng shui, Daoist medicine, psychology, and economics; read faces and phone numbers] [Practical insights] [Explaining the esoteric with science] My master hastily taught me the art of divination and passed down a few books. Before I even had the chance to formally begin my training in the mountains, he sent me down into the world to help people... Where can I even go to complain about that? Amid the mortal world, I help others and cultivate myself. 694.2kReads9.6Score146.3kShelves

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   I've been reading this recently; it's the only online novel I've ever read that I take notes on.

3. 3 北 Beijing Drifter Xiuxiu 北漂修修 White-Browed Eagle Who Likes Mucuna Beans喜欢牛蹄豆的白眉鹰Urban589k WordsCompleted I’m Wu Qi, an utterly ordinary poor kid. After graduating from high school, I ended up in Yanbei at a third-rate diploma mill where you could earn a degree through self-study exams. Then, in one night, I unexpectedly inherited a legacy, completed the Foundation Establishment stage, and reached the Golden Core stage in a month... From then on, I cultivated my mind, character, and practice in the mortal world... I started working part-time in Yanbei, selling things at street stalls, looking for jo 114Reads—Score—Shelves

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   I recommend some promising books.

4. 4 竹 The Bamboo Annals 竹书纪年 Uncredited Author不提撰人Historical17k WordsCompleted The Bamboo Annals is an important chronological history of ancient China. It is traditionally attributed to an official historian of the State of Wei during the Warring States period. In the Western Jin dynasty, it was unearthed on bamboo slips from an ancient tomb in Jixian, in present-day Henan, which gave the work its name. The book is divided into two volumes and records history from the Yellow Emperor through the twentieth year of King Anxi of Wei during the Warring States period, though so 32Reads8.1Score—Shelves

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   Every page you turn is breathtaking, every sentence you read is a classic. This is truly the pinnacle of literature; you'll regret it for the rest of your life if you don't read it!

5. 5 中 A History of Prostitution in China (A Republic-Era Masters’ History Collection) 中国娼妓史(民国名家史学典藏文库) Slave to Books Wang王书奴Historical164k WordsCompleted This book is divided into six chapters: Introduction; The Era of Shaman Courtesans; The Emergence of Slave Prostitutes and Official Courtesans; The Parallel Rise of Household Courtesans and Slave Prostitutes; The Golden Age of Official Courtesans; and The Era of Privately Run Prostitution. Topics include names and definitions, distinctions between periods, when the history of Chinese prostitution began, and shaman courtesans in the Shang dynasty, among others. 132Reads8.5Score121Shelves

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   These few books are enough to keep you reading from dusk till dawn.

6. 6 天 The Celestial Master Is Here: Qimen Feng Shui Shakes the World 天师在此，奇门风水震天下 Big Eggplant大茄子Mystery6.3M WordsCompleted [Several short dramas have been adapted from this novel: Feng Shui Heavenly Master, The Grand Master of Qimen Feng Shui, The Heavenly Master Is Here, Qimen Feng Shui Shakes the World, Notes of a Folk Feng Shui Master, and others] Everything in this book is fictional. Just enjoy the story, don’t take it seriously, and don’t get too caught up in it... 248.3kReads9.1Score59.8kShelves
7. 7 曾 Zeng Guofan's Methods of Scholarship 曾国藩治学方法 Hu Zhefu胡哲敷Historical77k WordsCompleted This book explores three dimensions: self-cultivation, managing affairs, and reading. Its discussion of self-cultivation advocates integrating “resolve, insight, and perseverance,” building a foundation for body and mind through meditation and a regular routine. Its approach to managing affairs reveals, through practical examples such as running a household and leading an army, the unity of hands-on action and institutional innovation. Its discussion of reading emphasizes “mastering one field” a 342Reads9.0Score159Shelves
8. 8 食 The Southern Gourmet 食南之徒 Ma Boyong马伯庸Historical173k WordsCompleted Tang Meng, a gluttonous envoy of the Han Empire, arrives in Nanyue, a land renowned for its cuisine. With ingredients in abundance, it seems like a food lover’s dream. Yet behind the feasts simmer tensions between north and south, divisions between peoples, struggles for power, and battles over the rise and fall of national policies. The twists and turns are even more complex than the flavors of Lingnan’s ingredients. This laid-back Han envoy finds himself caught in the whirlpool of political st 5.7kReads9.6Score1.3kShelves
9. 9 一 Chinese History That Gets You Hooked from the First Page 一读就上瘾的中国史 July Yan'an七月延安Historical892k WordsCompleted A sweeping series on the historical patterns of five thousand years of Chinese history, helping you build a rational, objective, and pattern-seeking framework for a new way of thinking! This series is, in fact, a history book even more captivating than a novel. Starting with the Qin and Han dynasties, it covers the Jin dynasties, the Northern and Southern Dynasties, the Sui and Tang dynasties, the Song, Liao, Jin, and Xia dynasties, the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, and the Taiping Heavenly Ki 37.5kReads9.5Score5.4kShelves
10. 10 山 Chronicles of Mountains and Rivers 山河志 A Dao阿刀Urban1.9M WordsCompleted His beautiful mother was nearly assaulted by a village lout, but she tearfully begged the man who rescued her not to call the police. Young Gao Yuan couldn’t understand why at the time. Only when he reached his thirties and looked back on the past, with those scenes flashing through his mind, did he realize that the lives of countless rural people together form a chronicle of the mountains and rivers of China! 84.2kReads9.6Score9.2kShelves

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    A true warrior is one who, having seen through the harsh realities of this world, still loves it.

11. 11 诱 A Kiss for the Green Pear 诱吻青梨 Little Little Little Witch小小小巫Modern Romance416k WordsCompleted [College campus + one-on-one, mutually faithful couple + sweet romance + domineering pursuit] [Born bad × sweet and innocent] Jin Yue is the heir to the Jin family, blessed with exceptional looks and a capricious, domineering personality. He's always been the center of attention. No one could have imagined that Jiang Qingli, who had always followed the rules and done as she was told, would break his pride and turn him into a lovesick puppy at her feet. * After her father dies in an accident, Jia 12.8kReads9.0Score1.2kShelves

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    🌿This book is truly a classic. It mainly tells the story of a mother who dedicated her life to her children. During this time, she may have suffered many setbacks, but in the end, she always finds happiness.

12. 12 明 The Three Great Cases of the Late Ming Dynasty 明末三大案 Wine and Poetry斗酒诗篇Mystery19k WordsCompleted Throughout history, whenever dynasties changed or major political events unfolded, intrigue ran rampant in the imperial harem, where women were forbidden from meddling in government. It was common for high-ranking consorts to try to seize control of the court. In the final years of the Ming dynasty, political rivalries at court grew increasingly fierce. Amid this age of turmoil, a series of palace secrets later known as the “Three Great Cases of the Late Ming” quietly unfolded. The Palace Assa 857Reads9.3Score114Shelves

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    I really learned a lot after watching this; I must say, classic poems are timeless! 👍

13. 13 金 Golden Splendor Falls Beneath the Hidden Azure Heavens 金华恰在隐青霄 Ping'er Who Loves Taro-Braised Duck爱吃芋头焖鸭的平儿Xianxia352k WordsCompleted Lu Yunshen is a restorer of ancient books in the Special Collections Department of the Provincial Library. His mind is as cool and precise as a surgical blade, shaped by rigorous scientific training, yet he harbors a secret yearning for “absolute truth.” After a text turns up by chance, he begins putting his practice into action and gradually gains insight… —Reads—Score—Shelves

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    Reading is a guide to texts, and also a genuine process of shaping reason and understanding. Therefore, the most important thing lies in the individual's awakening to that unique state of mind of leisurely tranquility, capable of truly appreciating and presenting it. Listening to texts being read aloud, maintaining that increasingly clear awareness, as long as it doesn't wander or become drowsy, one will naturally know what kind of growth one truly needs, and what kind of literary works will truly benefit one.

14. 14 妈 A Mother's Love Letter 妈妈的情书 Ping'er Who Loves Taro-Braised Duck爱吃芋头焖鸭的平儿Urban899k WordsOngoing In 2024, while sorting through old belongings, Beichen and Nanji discover a letter their birth mother had treasured. Hoping to set the record straight about a chapter of their mother’s past that had been buried, the sisters secretly submit “Mom’s love letter” to the 2025 Huaxia Love Letter Contest and ask Dong Qi to accept the award on their behalf. At the ceremony, Wang Ziyun, the contest’s founder, recognizes the text and accuses Dong Qi on the spot of being “a plagiarist who stole someone els 1Reads—Score—Shelves
15. 15 山 Old Friends of the Mountains and Rivers: An Age of Fog and Iron 山河故人：雾与铁的年代 ciygzfModern Romance497k WordsOngoing This novel does not merely retell a legend; it dissects one. Against the most turbulent backdrop of the twentieth century, it traces how two stars were torn apart by gravity, and how each burned with dignity in its own orbit. The ultimate question it explores is this: when the times turn every “right” choice into an impossible luxury, how can a person come to terms with their own choices? 1Reads—Score—Shelves
16. 16 考 Archaeology of China: 11-Volume Set 考古中国：全11册 Yue Nan岳南Historical3.4M WordsCompleted The Archaeology of China series is a collection of investigative nonfiction works by authors including Yue Nan. Written over the course of thirty years, it explores eleven major archaeological projects and discoveries in China. Drawing on field interviews with people involved, archaeological reports, and extensive historical sources, the author vividly reconstructs the inception, excavation, and research of eleven projects: the Dingling Tomb of the Ming Dynasty; the Terracotta Army at the Mausol 1.4kReads9.5Score359Shelves

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    You'll find it helpful to look at these backpacks.

17. 17 一 The Three Kingdoms: History So Addictive, You Can’t Put It Down 一读就上瘾的三国史 SpikeHistorical191k WordsCompleted The Three Kingdoms era was marked by endless warfare and rival warlords, and is now familiar to everyone thanks to Romance of the Three Kingdoms. But the novel isn't history, and some of the famous stories we all know never actually happened! Did Zhuge Liang really borrow arrows with straw boats? Why is Zhang He known as “the Three Kingdoms strength tester”? How did Fei Yi live a life worthy of the title “master of pacing”? Did Cao Zhi really love his sister-in-law? Why is Cao Cao's life said to 1.2kReads9.5Score100Shelves
18. 18 人 A Brief History of Human Torture 人类酷刑简史 Mark P. Donnelly马克·P.唐纳利Historical151k WordsCompleted For thousands of years, humanity has devised many ingenious and cruel ways to inflict pain on its own kind. This tragic yet seemingly universal trait has corroded the civilization humanity strives to achieve. Though we now seem to detest torture, for more than 3,000 years it was part of the laws of all Europe and much of the Far East. A Brief History of Human Torture explores the many forms of punishment, torture, coercion, and torment. It takes readers into the arenas of ancient Rome, medieval 7.2kReads9.6Score1.1kShelves
19. 19 十EN Ten Days to the End 十日终焉 Pest Control Team Member杀虫队队员Mystery3.2M WordsCompleted 2024 Tomato Novel Annual Peak Rankings TOP 1 | 2024 China Online Literature Influence List | 2024 China Good Novel Award | Over 2 million copies sold (No harem, no formulaic tropes, no invincibility, no System, no mindless antics, no wish fulfillment. Read with caution if these bother you.) Just when I thought it was an ordinary day, I discovered I had been captured and taken to the End. Just when I thought I could escape by continually taking part in death games, people began awakening supernat 1.7MReads9.9Score207.7kShelves
20. 20 我EN I'm Not a God of Theater 我不是戏神 Three Nine Sound Domain三九音域Urban4.0M WordsCompleted The brand-new masterpiece by San Jiu Yin Yu, author of Slay the Gods | Winner of the Best Science-Fiction Web Novel Award at the Macau International Science Fiction Awards | A Chinese grotesque epic that turns the tide of an era After a scarlet meteor streaked across the sky, human civilization ground to a halt. From that day onward, humanity could no longer build a rocket, a nuclear bomb, an airplane, a car... The pyramid of civilization built upon modern science collapsed with a thunderous roa 1.7MReads9.9Score181.2kShelves
21. 21 欠 I Owe You a Hug, in This Life and the Next 欠你一个拥抱，今生今世 Flowing Water, Pillow the Moon流水枕月Modern Romance171k WordsCompleted Life is full of helpless moments. You can love someone deeply and still be powerless to do anything. Even an embrace becomes an unattainable luxury. I owe you a hug, and that will remain my eternal regret in this life. 1Reads—Score—Shelves

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    I see in you the most precious persistence of an idealist, as well as the gentleness and responsibility of a mature man honed by time.

22. 22 四 The Secret Histories of the Four Great Beauties 四大美人秘史 Master of Ancient Wu Su Yan古吴素阉主人Historical103k WordsCompleted [The Four Beauties, classical historical romances, complete uncensored public-domain editions, stories of celebrated women in history, ancient tales] This complete collection contains the original, unabridged texts of The Romance of Xishi, The Romance of Wang Zhaojun, The Romance of Yang Guifei, and The Romance of Diaochan. It recounts the turbulent lives of the Four Beauties, whose beauty was said to make fish forget to swim, geese forget to fly, the moon hide, and flowers blush. Together, thes 476Reads9.2Score100Shelves

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    Starting today, set a small goal: never run out of books to read.

23. 23 大 The Ming Dynasty (2 Volumes) 大明王朝（共2册） Liu Heping刘和平Historical653k WordsCompleted The novel of the hit drama Ming Dynasty 1566, rated 9.5 on Douban, is essential reading for Taiwan’s political circles and a political reference book for Singapore’s cabinet. It is the celebrated work of Liu Heping, screenwriter of Yongzheng Dynasty and author of No War in Peking. Centered on the downfall of the powerful official Yan Song, the book tells the gripping story of a complex anti-corruption campaign in the Ming Dynasty. It uncovers the mystery behind Jiajing, one of the most unconvent 43.8kReads9.6Score8kShelves
24. 24 马 The Maltese Falcon 马耳他之鹰 Dashiell Hammett达希尔·哈米特120k WordsCompleted One job, two murders, three groups on his trail, four factions. On a foggy night in San Francisco, private detective Sam Spade is drawn into a deadly con revolving around a priceless black falcon statuette. A beautiful woman, swindlers, hitmen, wealthy businessmen: everyone has an agenda, and danger lurks at every turn. When the truth strips away the disguises, and love collides with principle, he must make the most ruthless choice. No warmth, no redemption, just the truth, hard-boiled to the en 35Reads8.5Score—Shelves

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    If you want to read good books, don't just look at online ratings.

25. 25 十 Ten Socializing Techniques 十神社交术 Philosopher Cat哲学猫Urban130k WordsCompleted This is an unconventional guide to the art of social interaction, inspired by the author’s insights into “Daoist Eight Characters fortune-telling” and “Western pickup artistry.” It is completely different from the books on relationships you see in everyday life: not only is it easy to understand, it is also highly practical. Let’s look at the true nature of human beings in social interactions from a different perspective… 41Reads—Score—Shelves

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    These are all great books!!!

26. 26 三 The Principles of Ternary Consciousness and Memory Mapping 三元意识与记忆映射原理 Philosopher Cat哲学猫Sci-Fi & Apocalypse102k WordsCompleted This book deciphers the secrets of human longevity through philosophical reasoning. Tomato's number one original philosophical masterpiece, The Threefold Consciousness and Memory Mapping Principle, explores ideology, human nature, the secrets of human longevity, the truth behind ancient history, the origin of the moon, the mystery of the Great Flood, reasoning about past-life memories, an analysis of homosexuality, depression, multidimensional worlds, the differences in how men and women are att 1.5kReads9.2Score460Shelves
27. 27 莽 Chronicles of the Wilds 莽丛记 Wang Hu王胡Historical386k WordsCompleted [Wuxia chivalry + the nation in peril + torn between loyalty and righteousness + a tragic song of a turbulent age] The first volume of The Record of the Wilds, winner of the Best Long-Form Book Award at Legends Ancient and Modern, is set amid the Song-Jin wars and paints a vivid portrait of ordinary people caught up in the tides of history. It captures the essence of classical storytelling without sacrificing dramatic force: the wandering swordsman Yan Sheng rescues a secret envoy and obtains a 398Reads9.4Score—Shelves

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    The award-winning work is undoubtedly a masterpiece.

28. 28 恒 The Constant Register of Parables 恒籍寓鉴 Xuanyuan Badao轩辕霸道Modern Romance1.2M WordsOngoing Synopsis of The Book of Constant Records: Tales to Awaken the Mind and Discern the Truth With “drawing wisdom from the classics to illuminate the questions of today” as its guiding principle, this book selects over a hundred classic fables and anecdotes from the various schools of philosophy, historical biographies and notes, and folk tradition. These include “The Frog at the Bottom of the Well” from Zhuangzi, “Making Up the Numbers” from Han Feizi, and “The Man from Qi Who Worried the Sky Would 8Reads—Score—Shelves

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    A Treatise on Judging Character and Heart: An Age-Old Fable on Judging Character The world is vast and boundless, with countless people coming and going, and the human heart is even more unfathomable. Some appear kind but are as venomous as snakes, some speak sweet words but harbor daggers in their hearts, some seem mediocre but possess great talent, and some appear dignified but lack true ability. Throughout history, those who misjudge character suffer losses, ranging from making unwise friendships to missing out on talented individuals, ruining great undertakings, and even causing national destruction and eternal regret. During the Spring and Autumn Period, in the land of Qi and Lu, there lived a highly respected elder known as Master Boyang. He had seen countless people throughout his life and was deeply versed in the art of judging character. His disciples were spread throughout various states, many of whom became pillars of the court. One day, the disciples gathered in the academy and asked their teacher, "The hearts of people in this world are unpredictable. How can we see through a person's true nature and not be deceived by appearances?" Master Boyang stroked his beard and smiled, slowly saying, "There is a way to discern a person. It involves proceeding from the surface to the core, layer by layer, until the true nature is revealed. The world is complex, and the hearts of people are unpredictable. Those who only look at the surface will ultimately misjudge people and take the wrong path; those who delve into the core can distinguish between the wise and the foolish, right and wrong. Judging a person is never a matter of a glance or a single word; it requires step-by-step investigation, from the outside in, clearing away the fog to see their true heart." The disciples listened attentively as the teacher continued, explaining the first level of discerning a person: Judging by appearance is not as good as judging by words. Words are the voice of the heart; a single thought of good or evil reveals its initial traces. When people first meet, they first see the physical appearance, but appearance is never the standard for judging a person. In the past, Confucius' disciple Ziyu was ugly. Upon first meeting him, Confucius thought him mediocre and unlikely to achieve great things, and treated him with cold indifference. However, Ziyu never cared about the criticism of his appearance. He was upright in his words and deeds, always keeping his word and speaking truthfully. He never spoke falsehoods or spread rumors. He was rigorous in his studies, open-minded in his dealings with others, and his words were always those of a gentleman. Later, he devoted himself to scholarship, had many disciples, and became famous throughout the land. Upon learning this, Confucius sighed, "I judged people by their words and lost Zaiyu; I judged people by their appearance and lost Ziyu." On the other hand, there was another disciple named Zaiyu, also a disciple of Confucius. He was handsome and eloquent, always speaking of benevolence and morality, his words beautiful and moving. Confucius liked him greatly at first sight. But as time went on, he discovered that Zaiyu was insincere. While he spoke of respecting his teacher, he was lazy and negligent, even violating etiquette. The grand principles he spoke of were all pretense, mere empty words concealing his selfish motives. This is the simplest truth: appearance is merely an innate shell, unreliable; but words are a reflection of the heart. Sincerity or pretense, kindness or wickedness, will always leave traces in speech. Those who are glib and untrustworthy are certainly not sincere; those who speak frankly and with restraint are of upright character. The disciple then asked, "Can one know a person simply by listening to their words?" The master shook his head, revealing the second level of understanding: observing actions is worse than observing words. Actions embody one's will; words are easy, actions are difficult. Actions are the measure of true character. Words can be faked, but actions cannot be false. No matter how eloquently one speaks, it is not as effective as doing something concrete. During the Warring States period, Zhao Kuo, son of the famous Zhao general Zhao She, was well-versed in military strategy from a young age. He could speak fluently and eloquently about military tactics, his words sharp and incisive, even his father could not refute him. People praised him as a potential general, and the King of Zhao was moved by his words, entrusting him with military power. Zhao Kuo, however, was all talk and no action, lacking any real combat experience. His words and deeds contradicted each other; he constantly spouted military strategy but had no practical ability. Ultimately, in the Battle of Changping, his rash attack led to the massacre of 400,000 Zhao soldiers, crippling the state from that moment on. A thousand words are no substitute for a single, sincere deed. Zhuge Liang of the Three Kingdoms period, when he first emerged from obscurity, was visited three times by Liu Bei, who listened attentively to his discussions of the world's affairs. His words were earnest and insightful, and Zhuge Liang put his ambitions into practice. Early in his career, he burned Bowangpo and Xinye, proving his talent with concrete achievements. He then devoted his life to serving Liu Bei, serving him with unwavering loyalty and integrity, ultimately becoming a renowned prime minister throughout history. Judging a person shouldn't be based solely on what they say, but more importantly, on what they do. Are they grounded and practical, or do they aim too high? Are they true to their word, or just all talk and no action? Only through their actions and behavior can one truly discern a person's true nature. The disciple suddenly understood and then asked, "After observing their actions, how can we gain a deeper understanding of them?" Master Boyang slowly explained the third level: Observing their character is worse than observing their actions. Character is like a flowing river, revealing their breadth of mind and their overall vision. While the ability to do things can be learned and developed, a person's character and breadth of mind are innate qualities cultivated through experience; they cannot be faked or faked. The Chu-Han Contention, with its rivals Xiang Yu and Liu Bang, serves as the best example. Xiang Yu possessed unparalleled strength and courage in battle, acting decisively and achieving numerous military exploits. However, he was narrow-minded, stubborn, and intolerant of others' opinions. He easily took his anger out on others at the slightest dissatisfaction, and was stingy in rewarding his meritorious officials, causing his advisors and generals to gradually become disloyal. His demeanor was filled with narrow-mindedness and impetuosity, ultimately preventing him from achieving great things. Liu Bang, on the other hand, was far inferior to Xiang Yu in terms of martial prowess and military achievements, yet he possessed a composed demeanor, a broad mind, and the ability to tolerate others and accept advice. He remained calm and composed in the face of adversity and accepted criticism with equanimity. Han Xin had suffered the humiliation of crawling between someone's legs and was looked down upon by the world, yet Liu Bang disregarded the past and boldly appointed him; Zhang Liang and Xiao He offered frank advice, and he never became angry, but humbly accepted it. This magnanimous demeanor attracted talented people from all over the world to his side. A person's demeanor reveals their character; a broad-minded person is composed and unhurried, able to tolerate what the world finds intolerable; a narrow-minded person is cramped and frivolous, ultimately unable to go far or achieve anything. "Beyond demeanor, is there a deeper realm?" The disciples asked, increasingly curious. The master nodded, revealing the fourth level of judging a person: observing their spirit is worse than observing their aura; spirit is cultivated by the heart, and a stable spirit leads to a stable heart, and a profound foundation naturally arises. Demeanor is an outward posture, while spirit and vitality are inner cultivation, the foundation of a person's character. To remain calm and composed in the face of adversity, with a firm gaze and serene expression, is true composure. Conversely, to panic at the slightest setback, to become anxious and worried at the slightest change, with a flustered expression and shifty eyes, is true disarray. During the Three Kingdoms period, Zhuge Liang employed the Empty City Stratagem. Facing Sima Yi's 100,000-strong army, with no soldiers or generals in the city, he sat calmly on the city tower, burning incense and playing the zither, his expression serene and his gaze calm, without the slightest panic. This composure stemmed from his inner steadiness and lifelong cultivation; even in dire straits, he remained calm and collected, preventing Sima Yi from rashly advancing. Those with restless hearts and no inner strength, however, lose their composure at the first sign of trouble, their expressions panicked, their words and actions inappropriate, utterly unfit for great responsibility. A person's spirit and energy reveal their experience, cultivation, and inner strength. A composed person possesses profound inner qualities, capable of shouldering great responsibilities and weathering storms. Finally, Mr. Boyang solemnly stated the highest level of discerning character: observing the heart is worse than observing the spirit. The heart is fundamental, governing words and actions, and determining destiny. Appearance, speech, actions, demeanor, and spirit are ultimately external manifestations, while the heart is the essence of a person. A kind heart leads to upright conduct, an evil heart to crooked conduct; an upright heart makes a righteous person, an evil heart makes a wicked person. The heart is the source of all words and actions, and the most crucial standard for judging a person. Emperor Taizong of Tang, Li Shimin, deeply understood the art of recognizing and employing people. He never judged people by appearances, but rather sought to understand the true nature of his ministers. Wei Zheng was outspoken and dared to remonstrate, often contradicting Li Shimin in public. His words were sharp, and his demeanor seemed "unruly," yet he showed no sign of flattery. However, Li Shimin saw through Wei Zheng's selfless dedication to the country and his lack of ulterior motives. Even when displeased, he always valued and employed him. It was precisely because he could discern the good and evil in people's hearts, distinguish the loyalty and treachery of his ministers, and appoint loyal officials while keeping away from treacherous ones, that he created the prosperous reign of Zhenguan and achieved the golden age of the Tang Dynasty. In contrast, Emperor Yang of Sui, Yang Guang, before ascending the throne, appeared dignified, humble, composed, and radiant, seemingly a wise and virtuous ruler. However, he was ambitious, cruel, and selfish, only interested in seizing power and enjoying pleasure. After ascending the throne, he revealed his true nature, indulging in extravagance and debauchery, persecuting loyal officials, and ultimately leading to the downfall of his country and his own death. On the surface, Yang Guang may seem perfect, but if you look into his true nature, he is a treacherous and cruel person. If you can't discern a person's true nature, you will ultimately be mistaken. At this point, Master Boyang looked at his disciples and summarized, "The level of discernment in people varies, and different people have different perspectives." Ordinary people, with their shallow vision, only focus on outward appearances, judging people by their looks, often missing out on talented individuals and associating with petty people, thus going astray. Scholars and refined individuals, captivated by talent, are easily misled by clever or clumsy words, believing only in flowery language and ornate writing, easily blinded by appearances. Wise people, with their clear understanding, are no longer bound by appearances and words, but value the truthfulness of actions, observing people through their conduct, gaining some insight into their character, but not yet seeing through their essence. Those who cultivate themselves, having refined their character, transcend words and actions, carefully observing the elegance or vulgarity of others, seeing their breadth of vision and character, thus advancing their understanding of people to a higher level. Those who have attained enlightenment, with their clear minds, can see through their demeanor to the purity or impurity of their spirit, seeing their inner cultivation, thus approaching the true essence of discerning people. Those who achieve great things can see into the essence of people's hearts, discarding all external appearances to directly explore the good and evil in their hearts. Only by discerning people with their hearts can one truly see through them. Inside the academy, a gentle breeze caressed their faces, and the disciples suddenly understood. The master concluded with these admonitions: "When judging people, do not be bound by appearances, nor confined by words, nor misled by outward extravagance; when experiencing the world, go straight to the core, do not be obsessed with empty fame, and do not be disturbed by outward forms. Although the human heart is difficult to fathom, there are clues to follow. Proceed from the surface to the core, from words to actions, from actions to temperament, from temperament to spirit, from spirit to heart, layer by layer, step by step, to see into their heart. Only then can you distinguish between loyalty and treachery, and between the wise and the foolish. This is the timeless principle of judging people, and also the true guide to living a peaceful and prosperous life." In all things in the world, judging people comes first. Only by understanding people can you make good friends, employ the virtuous, and walk a steady path. Do not be misled by appearances, do not be deceived by words, calm your mind, delve into each layer, see through their true nature, and you can stay away from evil and be close to the virtuous in the ups and downs of life, avoid detours, and finally find a smooth path.

29. 29 宋 History of the Song: Annals of Emperor Taizu 宋史·太祖本纪 Tuo Tuo脱脱Historical21k WordsCompleted He may have been the best “actor” among the founding emperors in Chinese history. In 960 CE, a carefully orchestrated “forced enthronement” at Chenqiao Station propelled Zhao Kuangyin from a general of the Later Zhou into the founding emperor of the Song Dynasty. Over drinks, he stripped the founding generals of their military power; amid the shadows of an axe and candlelight, the mystery surrounding his bizarre death remains unsolved to this day. Some call him a wise ruler who ended the chaos o 142Reads8.4Score—Shelves

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    I've bookmarked these books all over!

30. 30 中 A General History of China 中国通史 Ren Zhongyuan任中原Historical491k WordsCompleted The world-famous writer Cervantes said, “History gives birth to truth; it can withstand time and preserve old tales and past events. It is a record of ancient times, a warning for the present, and a lesson for future generations.” History is a mirror that records the successes and failures, prosperity and decline, triumphs and tragedies, transitions and renewal of human society. It also foreshadows humanity's future. 26.1kReads9.6Score4.2kShelves
31. 31 露 When Will This Fleeting Romance End? 露水鸳鸯何时了 Flowing Water, Pillow the Moon流水枕月Modern Romance241k WordsCompleted A murder takes place out of the blue on the first day of the Lunar New Year. As the police gradually investigate the case, the brief affair between Xu Chenyang and Chen Yulu comes to light. More tragically and bewilderingly, their children are repeating the story of the past. The love and hatred between two generations of lovers burn and spread like wildfire... 1Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The story involves you and me, a journey filled with stops and starts, searching and seeking. Will it ultimately be a twist of fate or a natural progression? Let's wait and see!

32. 32 时 The Shadow of an Era 时代的影子 Mud Hut泥巴窝Urban479k WordsCompleted From the backbreaking labor beneath Beijing’s scorching sun to the terrifying, agonizing fall from a hundred meters up; from being driven and trampled like livestock in the Blackstone Gully coal mine to the suffocating despair of being buried alive in West Alley... He swallowed every unforgettable hardship, forcing it down in silence like a rough bun full of grit, until it turned into stifled midnight coughs and cold sweat at his temples. Hope for a better life carried Chen Shan through trial af 1Reads—Score—Shelves

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    You can take a look...

33. 33 梦 Dreamwalker 2025 梦行者2025 Mu Mu Mu Xi木木木夕Sci-Fi & Apocalypse813k WordsOngoing [Dreamcore psychological sci-fi] [Dreamcore] [Cyber fantasy] [Artificial reincarnation] [Unconventional infinite-loop story] [Aloof genius heroine] [No romance] [Psychological] [Niche] This book is an unconventional record of a cast of minds, a dream called “life” from which no one needs to wake. A slow burn with a touch of horror. No power-fantasy tropes, only people who pass each other by, and no true romantic pairings. In April 2025, dreamwalker Qian Ye arrives in Moshou City and stays wit 32Reads8.3Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A literary fantasy, a world of modern people's spiritual landscape. Similar to Inception in the style of One Hundred Years of Solitude? ⊙▽⊙~A science fiction story with a core of dreams, slow-burning with a touch of horror, a serious drama, not a wish-fulfillment story, no system, no time travel, some gothic suspense, some psychological mystery adventure, some hardcore knowledge mixed with art, psychology, mysticism, mathematics, and theoretical physics, but at its core, it's a dystopian romanticism. 💓💓The early plot focuses on the modern and near future, a niche experimental work reflecting on the process of industrial civilization based on the social and humanistic manifestation of dreams. If you like psychology, start reading from the beginning ٩( 'ω' )و To understand the story's fantastical foundation, you can read chapters after chapter 111.

34. 34 我 I'll Wait for You Until You're Seventy 我等你到你七十岁 Lu Jingnian禄经年Two Female Leads35k WordsCompleted Part One has 14 chapters. The remaining 14 chapters will be in Part Two. Life's great achievements aren't built on love alone. It's having a bond you can entrust your heart to that lets you lower your guard a little, dare to take risks, fight back against the darkness, and protect that small light in your heart amid a wasteland. But dreams are only dreams, in the end. No matter how perfect the two people you imagine may be, they can never rival a real embrace in reality. Love is precious not bec 4Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    [Admiration][Admiration][Admiration][Admiration][Admiration][Admiration]

35. 35 月 Moonlight Falls into Life 月光落到生命里 Lu Jingnian禄经年30k WordsCompleted Moonlight Falls into Life 1Reads—Score—Shelves
36. 36 红 Secret Records Behind the Red Walls: A Complete History of China's Unofficial Past, Unabridged 红墙秘录：中国野史大全（无删节完整版） Xu Xiaotian许啸天Historical2.7M WordsCompleted This complete collection is like a secret key unlocking the hidden chambers of China's imperial past, guiding readers into shadowy corners that official histories leave shrouded in secrecy. From the ancient legends of Unofficial History of the Xia and Shang to the imperial passions and court intrigues of The History of the Imperial Harem in the Song Dynasty, The History of the Imperial Harem in the Ming Dynasty, and Unofficial History of the Yuan Dynasty; from the extravagant excesses of The Ero 1.6kReads9.3Score256Shelves

    Reader note

    A collection of excellent books and articles, constantly expanding.

37. 37 野 Unofficial History Isn't Necessarily False 野史未必假 Wang Lei王磊Historical151k WordsCompleted [The full-cast audio edition is now available. Give it a listen!] From the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors to the Ming and Qing dynasties, discover the truth behind popular unofficial histories! This book examines 22 popular historical tales from China’s earliest dynasties through the Ming and Qing, using vivid reconstructions, close study of historical sources, and logical analysis to uncover the truth behind them. Was Qin Shi Huang’s biological father Lü Buwei? Did Emperor Taizong of Song m 26kReads9.6Score4.3kShelves
38. 38 野 The Unofficial History Might Be True 2: Emperors, Kings, Generals, and Ministers 野史未必假2：帝王将相篇 Wang Lei王磊Historical123k WordsCompleted A brand-new sequel to "Unverified Tales May Not Be False"! Twenty-two new historical mysteries, twenty-two thrilling investigations! Was Wang Mang a transmigrator? Was Zhu Di really Empress Ma’s biological son? Was the Guangxu Emperor poisoned to death by Cixi? Rumors don’t come from nowhere; the truth is often hidden within them. This book explores familiar unofficial stories from Chinese history, from the Three Dynasties through the Ming and Qing, including the beacon fires that fooled the feu 1.8kReads9.4Score398Shelves
39. 39 思 Nest of Thoughts 思窝 Wen Huanzhang温焕章Sci-Fi & Apocalypse175k WordsOngoing As fake data on the internet spiraled out of control, a phenomenon in which bad money drove out good spread like cancer across major online platforms, spilling from the virtual world into the real one. When things reach an extreme, they must turn around. As the pendulum of history changed direction, the GeoNet, blending the virtual and the real, came into being and opened a new chapter in the age… This book portrays the vision of the creators of Siwo for the future. 11Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Telling the truth about human society in the digital age

40. 40 神 The Dream King of the Divine Fantasy Universe, Written by Meng Wang Luchuang 神幻宇宙梦王橹窗著 Wang Luchuang王橹窗Historical3.0M WordsOngoing The universe is vast and boundless, with no distinction between male- and female-oriented fiction, or between gods, immortals, demons, and monsters. Multiple heroines and heroes, both delicate and bold, overwhelmingly sweet or brutally cruel, unconventional and diverse in style: this fantasy epic has it all, a singular work in the literary world. Cloud Dream Celestial Gate + Dreadful Snow Dai + The Unknown Beginning + A Fall into Ten Thousand Calamities + Crouching Dragon Divine Tree + The Realm 10Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Breaking news! High-energy content ahead! Super shocking, amazing, heart-wrenching, and hilarious! Good works shouldn't be overlooked! I sincerely recommend this amazing masterpiece, "The Divine Fantasy Universe Dream," which I'm currently reading, to true readers like you. Add it to your bookshelf, follow me, and let's share great works together! You'll only know how good it is after you've read it! [Making faces][Making faces][Making faces][Making faces][Making faces]

41. 41 我 My Heavenly Father and Me 我和我的天父 Traveler1985旅人1985350k WordsCompleted A masterpiece about faith, spirituality, revelation, and wisdom. It can help guide you toward wisdom and happiness. If you haven't seriously reflected on the nature of faith, I recommend reading Chapters 21, 22, and 23 first: Being Reborn into God's Kingdom, The Unity of Heaven and Humanity, and Entering the Kingdom of Heaven. Then, when you read the other chapters, it will be much easier to engage with and understand these unfamiliar and marvelous treasures of thought. Thank you for stopping by 1Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This is a masterpiece that spreads faith and truth. My interpretation differs from traditional methods, resonating more with people's hearts. Later chapters will cover Western politics, society, and art, covering a wide range of topics. If you're interested, please follow me; I will continuously update with over 5000 words daily. If this has helped you, please share it with those around you!

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