Since sixteen literature works     1     (include) in the British Library, one of the world’s largest libraries, online novels with distinctive Chinese features have emerged as an important way for cross-cultural communication.

After 20 years of overseas development, China’s online literature has gained     2     (recognize) among the global readership. According to a report, Chinese online literary works have been translated into 20 languages,     3     (cover) more than 40 countries and regions. Online literature is becoming a successful cultural communication for China,     4     international readers showing a strong and growing willingness     5     (pay) for Chinese online literature. Some insiders have even listed     6     as one of the four cultural wonders of the world, alongside Hollywood blockbusters, Japanese animations, and idol dramas from ROK TV series     7     (adapt) from online literary works are popular both at home and abroad.

The     8     (evident) growing Chinese online literature in overseas markets offers a totally new worldwide lens into understanding China, through     9     overseas readers could not only learn more about Chinese cultural elements and core values such ns diligence, harmony and cooperation, but also realize the different cultural     10     (origin) and ways of thinking between China and the West.

A pair of scissors, a piece of paper, and a pair of dexterous (灵巧的) hands. That’s     1     is needed to create delicate works of paper-cuttings.

    2    (originate) in the Southern and Northern Dynasties, this ancient form of art has not only survived through generations but has also become     3     important part of Chinese culture. It is often associated with the     4     (celebrate) of the Spring Festival, where complex patterns of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals     5     (create) to bring good luck and fortune for the new year.

The art of paper-cuttings goes beyond mere craftsmanship. It is a form of expression deeply     6    (root) in Chinese history and tradition. Artists, without the need for any drawn draft, use their imagination to create     7    (variety) patterns and images with scissors and burins. Animals, flowers, mythological and historical figures are meticulously (细致地) cut and carved, each carrying its own symbolism and meanings.

Today, paper-cuttings continue to decorate Chinese homes,     8    (especial) during the Spring Festival. The windows and walls come alive with vibrant patterns and scenes of family reunions and temple fairs. It serves     9     a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that the Chinese people cherish     10     pass down from one generation to another.

Since ancient times, phoenixes     1     (regard) by Chinese as birds that can bring happiness and good fortune. A male phoenix is called feng and a female one huang,     2     they are collectively called fenghuang (phoenix). Like the Chinese dragon, the phoenix is also viewed    3     a god or goddess. The phoenix is very beautiful, with the head of a     4     (gold) pheasant, the wings of a dapeng (a huge bird from Chinese legend) , the     5     (leg) of a crane, the beak of a parrot and the tail of a peacock, and is     6     king /queen of all birds, as well as a symbol of beauty, happiness and peace. Legend has it that when the state is in a state of peace and prosperity, the phoenix will descend from heaven     7     (live) on earth. When the phoenix appears, numerous birds will fly after it from all directions,     8     is called “birds paying homage to the phoenix”. In the feudal age, the phoenix was taken as a symbol of the     9     (noble) woman of the imperial court. The phoenix remains a popular image in Chinese folklore today,     10     (symbolize) good fortune, happiness and joy.

In 2017, when Bonino was working for a Spanish e-commerce company doing business in Chile, she received an invitation from China     1     (participate) in a forum (论坛) about the Belt and Road Initiative. In 2013, China proposed this initiative to improve     2     (connect) between the countries along and beyond the ancient Silk Road routes. By 2023, 22 South American countries, including Chile,     3     (join) the initiative.

At first, Bonino was hesitant about     4     trip because she had an extremely     5     (limit) understanding of China. Her references to the country were only the Chinatowns in a few cities around the world. She said, “But then I figured this might be a little different from what I know. And so,     6     the end, I accepted the invitation.”

In June 2017, Bonino visited China for three weeks, and found     7     (her) pleasantly surprised. She recalled, “I was crazy about China. It fascinated me.”

She was so impressed     8     she found a way to return that same year and eventually got a master’s degree in business administration in Beijing. After     9     (complete) her graduate studies, she worked in China for a while and discovered a few new     10     (opportunity), all in all, living in the country from 2017 to 2019.

Today, Bonino manages Los Andes Beltroad from Chile, in the export of cherries and plums from the Andes Mountains to the Chinese market.