The China Children's Press & Publication Group has unveiled a new children's novel titled The Drifting Bottle. Inspired by a true story that unfolded over three decades ago, the novel draws readers into a world of friendship, adventure, and cultural connection.

The novel is based on an event that took place during the 1994 Shanghai International Children's Cultural and Art Festival, where over 200 drifting bottles, each containing an invitation letter and a golden key, were cast into the sea.

Months later, the serendipitous discovery of one of these drifting bottles on the shores of South Africa's Durban by a local young girl sparked a cross-continental friendship. The message within, penned by a Chinese child, and the accompanying golden key were an invitation to Shanghai, setting the stage for a heartwarming bond between families separated by oceans.

The Drifting Bottle, written by children's author Feng Yulan, follows the journey of Jiang Lehang, a Chinese boy who crosses paths with a South African girl during a summer camp. As their friendship blossoms, they discover a shared history rooted in the drifting bottle that once bridged their parents' lives, leading them on a captivating adventure to the Yangshan Deep Water Port, one of Shanghai's major ports, where the tale began.

Through the lens of youthful curiosity and discovery, the novel delves into China's maritime accomplishments and the evolution of the Maritime Silk Road, offering young readers a glimpse into the nation's maritime heritage and the transformative changes that have shaped Shanghai's urban landscape over the years.

The Drifting Bottle stands out as the first domestic children's novel to spotlight China's maritime achievements, emphasizing themes such as family bonding, cultural exchange, and the power of understanding across borders. Scholars and critics have lauded the novel for its unique narrative approach, blending personal stories with broader historical and social contexts, and its exploration of growth and connection across generations.

With its compelling storyline and rich themes, The Drifting Bottle aims to inspire young readers to embrace curiosity, empathy, and the beauty of cultural exchange. As the novel unfolds, it not only offers a glimpse into China's dynamic shipping industry but also encourages readers to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and connection in a world brimming with possibilities.

Source: Shanghai Observer