Cover of the US version of the Bronze and Sunflower.

Cao Wenxuan's novel Bronze and Sunflower was included in the globally recognized academic publication, the World of Wonders: Celebrating the Great Works of Children's Literature, in August.

This represents a major milestone in China's children's literature, with the novel being the sole Chinese work included among the 75 global classics in the book.

The World of Wonders charts the history of international children's literature classics from the mid-19th century onward. Edited by acclaimed writer and critic Daniel Hahn, the book features contributions from leading scholars like John Stephens and Kimberley Reynolds, both of whom have served as presidents of the International Research Society for Children's Literature. Their selections are regarded as key academic standards.

World of Wonders: Celebrating the Great Works of Children's Literature.

The book includes 75 beloved children's classics from over 20 countries spanning 200 years, showcasing the developmental history of the world's most cherished children's novels.

Bronze and Sunflower is the only Chinese children's literature work to be included in this prestigious dictionary, placing it alongside renowned world classics such as Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tales, The Little Prince, and Harry Potter series. This achievement signifies a significant milestone, reflecting a growing global recognition of Chinese children's literature.

Published by Phoenix Juvenile and Children's Publishing in 2005, Bronze and Sunflower is an evocative narrative that chronicles the lives of two young protagonists: Sunflower, an orphan living amidst the urban landscape, and Bronze, a rural boy from a humble family. The novel intricately depicts their journeys of friendship, resilience, and mutual support as they navigate the complexities of the 1960s and 1970s — a period marked by significant social and political upheavals. Through its exquisite literary craftsmanship and vivid storytelling, the book captures the emotional depths of its characters, resonating deeply with readers around the globe. Over the years, it has garnered critical acclaim and has become an influential masterpiece in contemporary literature, establishing itself as a remarkable and widely celebrated work within the realm of international publishing.

To date, Bronze and Sunflower has been translated into 26 languages, with 36 different versions published in major languages such as English, French, and German. Since 2015, the novel has garnered numerous international accolades, including prestigious awards like the PEN Pinter Prize and the Marsh Award for Children's Literature in Translation. The PEN Pinter Prize praised Cao for "telling a universal story of dignity and love using the simplest language", highlighting the novel's powerful narrative simplicity. The Freeman Book Award in the United States also praised its profound representation of Asian culture. Its inclusion in the Young Adult Library Services Association's book list further underscores its recognition as a valuable educational resource in the English-speaking world.