Journey into Ancient China and discover the inventions thathave changed our world. Did you know that the first compasses were shaped likespoons? Or that gunpowder was discovered by Ancient Chinese alchemists insearch of a potion for eternal life? Or that the stories of many items you seearound you every day--paper, playing cards, kites, fireworks, and even tea--beganin Ancient China? As you travel from neolithic times through the dynasties ofimperial China, discover the origins of more than 40 genius inventions thatstill shape our world today. Journey alongside the magnificent treasure shipsthat sailed the high seas with precious cargo of gold, silver, porcelain, andsilk to trade with foreign kings and queens. Marvel at the suspension bridgesthat spanned mountains and deep river gorges. And find out how ancient Chinesescientists made accurate moving models of the skies. Every detail about theinventions has been pored over by a team of expert consultants who areinterviewed at the end of each chapter. With vivid illustrations by Terri Po and Mal Fisher, as wellas contemporary photographs, timelines, maps, and even quizzes, this bookcelebrates the awe-inspiring ingenuity of Ancient China, which has transformedthe world as we know it, and continues to be part of our lives today.