Warriors and Wailers: 100 Ancient Chinese Jobs You May Have Relished or Reviled

Ever thought of becoming an emperor? How about a silk maker?

China was one of the most advanced societies in the ancient world. Whether in medicine, the arts, or education, the Chinese far outpaced the Europeans. Although most people were peasants, society included a myriad of other jobs.

It may sound like a great position, but being emperor had its downside. If you displeased the gods, you could be put to death. As a silk maker, you would be sworn to secrecy so foreigners wouldn't learn how to spin the precious thread. Other jobs included wailer (yes, you'll cry whether you want to or not), noodle maker (noodles were not only delicious, but also a symbol of long life), or Shaolin warrior monk (if you were really good, you could break stone slabs with your fists).

A fact-filled introduction, index, and timeline make this book-the sixth in the series-perfect for research projects, while the humorous illustrations keep it fun.

Sarah Tsiang is a poet and the author of two Annick titles, A FLOCK OF SHOES and DOGS DON'T EAT JAM AND OTHER THINGS BIG KIDS KNOW. She lives in Kingston, Ontario.

Martha Newbigging has illustrated many Annick books, including RESEARCH ATE MY BRAIN, and all the books in the Jobs in History series. Martha lives in rural Ontario.