Your cart is empty 
Xiao Ming Goes to the Zoo is a cheerful and engaging beginner Chinese reader that invites learners to experience a joyful family outing through simple, natural language. On a bright Sunday morning, Xiao Ming sets off with his parents to the zoo, where he sees elephants with long noses, playful monkeys running through the trees, and powerful tigers and lions pacing in their cages. Along the way, readers follow Xiao Ming's excitement, curiosity, and small moments of fear and reassurance, all expressed through clear, everyday Chinese that feels warm and familiar. Written especially for HSK 1 learners and complete beginners, this story uses carefully controlled vocabulary and grammar to make reading Chinese feel achievable and enjoyable. Instead of memorizing word lists, readers learn through repetition, context, and meaningful situations such as traveling, asking questions, observing animals, and spending time with family. The book is presented in simplified Chinese, pinyin, and full English translation, with additional sentence-by-sentence explanations to support independent study and build confidence. Perfect for self-learners, students preparing for HSK exams, and anyone who wants to improve Chinese through stories, Xiao Ming Goes to the Zoo turns language learning into a pleasant reading experience. By the end of the story, learners not only expand their vocabulary and comprehension, but also gain the confidence to read Chinese aloud and enjoy the language as it is meant to be used in real life.
Chong Shipei is a Singaporean native Chinese writer and educator who specializes in creating accessible, meaningful Chinese readers for learners of all ages. Shipei's professional background spans early childhood education, social work, and volunteer service with children from diverse backgrounds, including special-needs students and underprivileged youth. She scores distinction for her Chinese during her "O" level. Her readers are known for their clear structure, carefully controlled vocabulary, and warm narrative voice. She often writes using simplified language frameworks such as HSK-aligned vocabulary, making her books especially suitable for beginners, young readers, and independent learners. Beyond everyday stories, her work also includes retellings of folklore, history, and Bible stories, written with sensitivity and clarity for early learners. Through her writing and teaching, Chong Shipei continues to help learners build not only their Chinese proficiency, but also confidence, curiosity, and a lasting love for reading.
Sneak Preview
