China's most popular traditional novel,Journey to the Westis the thrilling story of the Monkey King and his epic quest, with his trusted companions, to redeem himself. They face fantastic foes, demons and monsters during their amazing adventures traveling to the Western paradise. No matter what obstacle was put before him, the clever, wily Monkey King always got what he wantedunimaginable strength, eternal life, even his own position in the Celestial Realm with the gods. More than anything else, though, the Monkey King loved mischief and rulebreaking, and was sure he was the most powerful creature in the world. But after defeat and punishment for his tricks, the Monkey King found himself wanting some things he never expected: to be disciplined and good enough to help the monk Hsuan Zhang on his mission to bring Buddhist Scripturesand enlightenmentto China. Readers of all ages will thrill to Timothy Richard's retelling of the Monkey King's exploitswhether in the Dragon King's underwater castle, the Halls of the Dead or the palace of Buddha himselfand find themselves captivated as the Monkey King joins Hsuan Zhang and their companions the Dragon Horse, the Monk Sand and the equally mischievous Pig on the dangerous trek West. Despite the tale's ancient origins,Journey to the Westproves as fresh and engaging an adventure as anything written today.