1 . After 20 years of development, Chinese online literature has become one of the main resources of popular culture consumption in China. While it began with prevalent themes such as romance, fantasy, time travel and history, in recent years, online literature has turned from common themes to realism, which marks a new page in the development of the medium.

A report by the China Audio-Video and Digital Publishing Association shows that, in 2020, the market value of Chinese online literature reached nearly 25 billion yuan with a domestic reader base of 460 million people, of which around 7.58 million are active, daily users. By 2020, more than 21 million online writers had created about 29 million works.

Huo Yan, an assistant researcher with the Institute of Literature of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said “Readers like online literature because it satisfies what people currently most desire. On the surface, people want to be entertained and to relax, so that, in their free time, they don’t want serious thinking, but simply some pleasure from reading. Exactly, people desire to experience the past and the present. In real life, our identities and classes are definite, but online, we can have other identities. For example, if given another life, can a person who lives passively improve their lot in life? In literature, they can feel the pleasure from actively seizing opportunities, becoming stronger and better.”

“The writers of online literature are from all walks of life and each has a unique life experience and passion for literature. Their professional experience and love for writing greatly enrich their works. However, Huo continued: “online literature, despite its vitality, should learn from traditional literature to care more about reality, in addition to improving its language and plotting.”

1. What does the underlined word “prevalent” in the first paragraph mean?

A．Fresh.

B．Serious.

C．Creative.

D．Common.

2. What can we know about online literature from Paragraph 2?

A．It is becoming very popular in China.	B．It has defeated traditional literature.
C．The market value is gradually reduced.	D．It has attracted about 460 million foreigners.

3. Why is online literature so attractive to readers?

A．It makes readers happy.	B．It satisfies readers’ desires.
C．It makes readers think deeply.	D．It improves readers5 writing skill.

4. Which statement will Huo Yan probably agree with?

A．Online literature should focus more on reality.

B．All writers of online literature are professional.

C．The ideas of traditional literary writers are out of date.

D．The language and plotting of online literature are perfect.

2 . It is harder to get your kids to read a book now with tablets and smartphones being so prevalent (盛行的). Actually, you don’t have to force your kids into reading but rather encourage them to find enjoyment in it.

    1     You can of course say no to any books that seem inappropriate, but kids will be more likely to read more if they are enjoying what they’re reading and they feel like they have a say in the book that they’re reading.

Reading is usually a solitary (独自的) activity.     2     That’s why you can read books together. When you’re reading together, ask questions like ”What did you notice on that page?” or “Did you see that... ?” to make sure they are paying attention.     3     Doing voices is a great way, which can always make kids laugh. Do make reading together a cuddle (依偎) moment. It can’t be a rushed activity. Take a breath and let the day go, and then move into story time.     4    

Getting kids into books can take many different forms. Traditional books are great, but have you thought about getting them into stories via audiobooks (有声读物)?     5     And once they’re excited to hear the rest of the story, continue at home, whether it’s with a paper version of the book or more audiobooks. Kids can also listen on their own with headphones if they prefer to listen by themselves.

A．Try to make it fun.

B．However, your child might not like that aspect of it.

C．It’s a nice release of tension in the evening before bed.

D．Start seeking out books that can be relatable to your kids.

E．Parents force kids to read a certain number of pages per day.

F．Best of all, you can listen to an audiobook together while in the car.

G．A great way to get kids reading is to let them choose what they want to read.

3 . This summer, may we suggest switching your phone to airplane mode and getting lost in a book? It would be a good idea to curl up in your favorite chair with a book on the beach. Here are five brand new beach reads brimming with sunshine sand, romance and secret.

Out of the Clear Blue Sky by Kristan Higgins

Kristan Higgins spins a heartwarming and humorous tale of an empty nester going through some major life changes. The nurse has always put others first. But when her son’s departure for college coincides with her husband leaving her, life presents the perfect time to try to get herself back.

The Sea is Salt and so Am I by Cassandra Hartt

Cassandra Hartt’s debut young adult novel takes place on the coast of Maine, in a fictional town eroding into the ocean. Through different perspectives, this emotional and heartfelt story unpacks the trials of teenagers dealing with trust, love, dangerous tides, and growing up in a hometown that might not exist for much longer.

The Counselors   by Jessica Goodman

What could be better than a juicy tale of friends at a prestigious summer camp. This fast-paced young adult thriller set at the fictional Camp Alpine Lake, will have you turning pages in suspense and feeling a craving for campfires at the same time.

Dog Friendly by Victoria Schade

Pet lovers, cat your heart out. The latest novel from dog trainer and author Victoria Schade features an overworked vet, Morgan Pearce, who escapes to Nantucket to recharge while taking care of her client’s dog. Unexpected romance is in store for her.

The Forest of Vanishing Stars by Kristin Harmel

Now available in paperback, the author tells a page-turning novel about a woman who, after being kidnapped, finds herself isolated and living in the wilderness of Eastern Europe during World War II. In an unexpected turn of events, she is suddenly thrust into teaching a group of Jewish people who escaped Nazi Germany how to survive in the forest.

1. Who are these books probably recommended to?

A．People taking a plane.

B．People working on the beach.

C．People going on holiday.

D．People longing to live by the sea.

2. Which of the following would you choose if you favour stories about teenage life?

A．The Counselors and Dog Friendly.

B．The Sea is Salt and so Am I and The Counselors.

C．The Counselors and The Forest of Vanishing Stars.

D．Out of the Clear Blue Sky and The Sea is Salt and so Am I.

3. What do these books have in common?

A．They are mainly fictional.

B．They are heartwarming tales.

C．They are tales set in coastal areas.

D．They are exploring the same theme.

4 . There are literally thousands of books about running, each with their unique stories and angles. Here are four that might interest you.

● Advanced Marathoning – 2nd Edition

by Pete Pfitzinger, Scott Douglas ($38.13)

Shave minutes off your time using the latest in science-based training for serious runners. Advanced Marathoning has all the information you need to train smarter and arrive on the start line ready to run the marathon of your life.

Including marathon-pace runs and tempo runs, Advanced Marathoning provides only the most effective methods of training. You’ll learn how to improve your running workouts with strength, core, flexibility, and form training.

● Determined to Win: The Overcoming Spirit of Jean Driscoll

by Jean Driscoll ($10.99)

Jean Driscoll was named 25th of the top 100 women athletes in the century by Sports Illustrated for Women. Born with spina bifida (脊柱裂), Jean was never supposed to walk. But because of her intense determination, she not only learned to walk but to fly – in a wheelchair across the finish line.

In her autobiography, Jean describes her flight from physical paralysis (瘫痪) to true spiritual freedom. She shows us what perseverance can achieve.

● Boston Marathon Portraits: Pictures of Inspiration

by Raymond Britt ($19.99)

Boston Marathon Portraits features dramatic images of an exceptional race: the Boston Marathon. On race day, Boston comes alive with excitement and determination. This book presents these emotions and the action of the Boston Marathon, focusing on striking scenes and photos of runners before the race, at the starting line, the finish line and when the celebration of finishing begins.

● Women Runners

by Irene Reti, Bettianne Shoney Sien ($11.18)

This selected set of literary fiction, poems, and essays by women runners captures the essence of running, and the many hopes and dreams of women.

1. Which book would be your best choice if you were looking for tips on marathon training?

A．Women Runners.

B．Determined to Win: The Overcoming Spirit of Jean Driscoll.

C．Boston Marathon Portraits: Pictures of Inspiration.

D．Advanced Marathoning - 2nd Edition.

2. What is Boston Marathon Portraits: Pictures of Inspiration about?

A．Development of marathon.

B．Effective training methods.

C．Amazing photos of runners.

D．Essays written by runners.

3. Who is Irene Reti?

A．A novelist.	B．An editor.
C．A marathon winner.	D．A photographer.

5 . One thing that is missing from most children’s education these days is natural history. By that, I mean getting out into nature and digging in the dirt, catching insects and learning the names of animals and trees.

No amount of book- or computer-based learning can ever take the place of the first-hand experience of messing around in the wilderness. As biologist Elaine Brooks says in Richard Louv’s book, Last Child in the Woods, humans seldom value what they cannot name. Children must become familiar with nature, or else they will not understand why it needs to be protected.

But how does one teach a child to know nature? A new series of educational books called Outdoor School might be able to help. This series includes three textbooks, all of which offer a wealth of facts, skills, and pictures about the natural world to curious children. Titled Animal Watching, Hiking and Camping, and Rock, Fossil, and Shell Hunting, the books provide pages for making observations, answering questions, and reflecting (深思) on what the child has learned. Kids will learn how to identify wildflowers, build a rock collection, set up a tent and so much more.

As a parent who has been homeschooling my kids for the past few months, these books have come in handy. I use Animal Watching as part of their daily lesson plan, requiring my kids to read one chapter ( 章 ) a day and take part in the activities outlined in the book. It has become the highlight of their day. They head outside with the book and pencil in hand and observe the comings and goings of birds and small animals in our yard or the parks.

The series suits children living in all sorts of environments. There is plenty of information about animals, rocks and shells that can easily be found in urban parks or shorelines. Outdoor School does more than just get kids out into nature; it provides them with the tools to explore and understand it.

1. What does the author stress in the second paragraph?

A．Being close to nature raises children’s environmental awareness.

B．Mastering some basic life skills is difficult for children.

C．Outdoor activities can improve children’s creativity.

D．Children should learn about nature in fun ways.

2. How does Outdoor School benefit children?

A．It teaches them to draw pictures for stories.

B．It offers careful guidance on their school life.

C．It recommends some interesting camping activities.

D．It strengthens their nature education with useful methods.

3. What is mainly mentioned about the author’s kids?

A．Playtime makes them stay energetic.

B．They are under great pressure to study.

C．They are afraid to touch unfamiliar animals.

D．Reading increases their interest in exploring nature.

4. What probably is the text?

A．A news report.	B．A book review.
C．A scientific study.	D．An advertisement.

6 . Read any interesting books lately? We want to hear about them, so we’re hosting a Review Blitz! We want reasonable reviews in one month! These reviews must be your honest opinions. Don’t rush through writing them, because we’ll be paying attention to quality!

Deadline: Feb. 1. 2023
Rules: You must be a teen (aged 13-19) with a Teen Creativity account to enter.

●Submissions must relate to the topic.

●Each review must have a minimum of 250 words.

●There is no limit to the number of pieces you can submit.

Guidelines:

●Give a brief summary of the book. Don’t explain the entire plot or tell your reader how the book ends.

●Tell the reader what you like or dislike about the book, such as theme, characters, writing style, etc.

●Recommend the book to certain readers. Is the book more suitable to older teens? Would science fiction fans be interested in this book? It’s helpful for readers to think about the book in the context of other books they’ve read.

●Remember that it’s okay to have a strong opinion! Avoid starting sentences with “I think”, “I believe” or “In my opinion”.

Prizes:

●All participants will receive a certificate.

●First prize winners will each have one review published in Teen Creativity magazine and get a free 6-month magazine subscription.

●Second prize winners will each get a free 3-month magazine subscription and receive a $25 gift card.

●You’ll receive these prizes before Sep. 28, 2023.

Submit your works to teencreativity. com. We hope reviewing books brings you joy. Don’t think of writing a review as an assignment; imagine you are writing to a best friend who loves reading as much as you do!

1. The participants of Review Blitz ________.

A．need to be at least 12 years old	B．can submit more than one review
C．should upload works before Sep. 28	D．must express opinions within 250 words

2. What will all winners get besides certificates?

A．Gift cards.	B．Cash awards.
C．Free magazines.	D．Published reviews.

3. Which sentence should be avoided in the review?

A．The main character Bill survives at last.

B．The author’s use of imagery is masterful.

C．The talk between the cousins is unbelievable.

D．Fans of the Harry Potter series will love this book.

7 . Some of the most valuable skills that managers look for in employees are often difficult to define: creative problem-solving, empathy (共情), kindness and so on. How can you tell if your employees have these skills? Recent research suggests that you might look to the library for solutions.

When it comes to reading, we may be assuming that reading for knowledge is the best reason to pick up a book. Research, however, suggests that reading fiction may provide far more important benefits than nonfiction. Although reading nonfiction might certainly be valuable for collecting knowledge, it does little to develop EQ.

Research also suggests that reading fiction is an effective way to enhance the brain’s ability to keep an open mind while processing information. In a 2013 study, researchers examined something called the need for cognitive closure, or the desire to “reach a quick conclusion in decision-making.” Individuals with a strong need for cognitive closure rely heavily on “early information concept,” meaning they are unwilling to change their minds as new information becomes available. Individuals with a lower need for cognitive closure tend to be more thoughtful, more creative, and more comfortable-all characteristics of high EQ.

University of Toronto researchers discovered that individuals who read fiction demonstrated a lower need for cognitive closure. That result is not surprising given that reading fiction requires us to slow down, take in volumes of information, and then change our minds as we read. There’s no easy answer in fiction; instead, there’s only perspective-taking. As readers, we’ll almost certainly hate some characters but we are forced to experience how they think.

While there is no specific academic data on how fiction reading impacts employees, research on reading shows reading fiction to be one of the best methods for building empathy, critical thinking, and creativity. If we want better thinkers in the business world, we have to build better readers.

1. What can be inferred from the first two paragraphs about reading fiction?

A．It helps develop EQ.

B．It helps gain valuable skills at work.

C．It helps collect knowledge.

D．It helps find solutions to employment.

2. How does the writer explain the impact of cognitive closure on individuals?

A．By giving examples.

B．By describing the research process.

C．By making comparison.

D．By analyzing the research statistics.

3. What does the discovery of University of Toronto researchers suggest?

A．Reading fiction only requires perspective-taking.

B．Readers will hate characters while reading fiction.

C．The process of reading fiction helps improving thinking qualities.

D．The strong need for cognitive closure pushes readers to read fiction.

4. What did the author try to convey in the last paragraph?

A．Reading fiction improves academic performance.

B．Readers in the business world are urgently needed.

C．Research on the influence of reading should be considered.

D．Reading fiction has further influences on cultivating readers’ mind.

8 . The story of a 92-year-old book lover in a village of Chongqing has touched many recently, Sun Shiquan has collected more than 7,000 books over the past years and has offered a free local library to people there for years.

He was born in Pipa Village in Xiuqi Town of Chongqing’s Chengkou County. Being a bookworm as a child, he read all kinds of ancient books including the Four Books and the Five Classics. In the 1950s, he became one of only a handful of local college graduates and later served as a middle school teacher in the county.

He started to collect books in 1983 and gradually built a collection of many kinds over more than 40 years. Among his holdings is a precious set known as the Si Ku Quan Shu, dating back to Qing Dynasty. It is one of the only seven copies in the country.

Wearing glasses, Sun reads for more than three hours every day. Now he has finished reading most of his collections. Speaking of her father, Sun Ziyu, said, “My father has a habit of making notes on each book. He makes a mark whenever he stops reading so that he can carry on reading from where he left off.”

Village official Liu Jiao said, “Many children in the village love to visit Sun and listen to his stories.” She said the elderly man has earned respect from the whole village. People call him “Teacher Sun” and children call him “great-grandfather”.

Sun Ziyu said her father also writes poems and prose(散文) in his spare time and enjoys reading his works to the family. She said under her father’s influence, family members take the time to read together and exchange views. “That’s their favorite part,” she said.

“My father has loved reading for a lifetime,” Sun Ziyu said. “Reading is his meat and drink.”

1. What can we know from the first two paragraphs?

A．Mr Sun was born in a rich family.

B．There was only one free library in Xiuqi Town.

C．Mr Sun has been a book lover since childhood.

D．It was easy for children to get educated in the 1950s.

2. Which of the following best describes Sun’s Si Ku Quan Shu?

A．Colorful.

B．Valuable.

C．Demanding.

D．Enormous.

3. What is paragraph 4 mainly about?

A．Mr Sun’s reading habit.	B．Mr Sun’s life experiences.
C．Mr Sun’s writing hobby.	D．Mr Sun’s book collections.

4. What does Liu Jiao think of Mr Sun?

A．A person with talent.	B．A person worthy of pity.
C．A person with disability.	D．A person worthy of respect.

10 . There are some books that I will never take off my daughter’s bookshelf. Most of those books are_________, books.

Picture books create concrete (具体的) images in readers’ minds. They come alive when they’re being_________. My daughter, 8 years old, is a_________reader. She can sit down with almost any book and read it all by herself for hours._________, I still read to her. When it’s bedtime, she asks me to_________her a picture book, which gives us lots of joy.

Picture books are the campfire (篝火) story of the reading world. Picture books are so_________that they are able to bring people together easily. They’re_________enough to be compelling (引人入胜的) or short enough to hold your interest. They’re better than other books when it comes to the_________of language. They can tell complete stories in thirty-two pages or less. Reading a thirty-two-page book is not a(n)_________for a girl who can read a 500-page book on her own. However, reading isn’t always about challenging oneself. Sometimes reading is about sharing a__________with a loved one.

Some picture books aren’t fit for my daughter as she__________. But the ones that really draw her in and need to be read aloud will always be__________for her. So this is why I’ll never stop reading picture books with my__________. We’re reading together because it__________us pleasure. That’s why I’ll always keep picture books on her__________.

1.

A．picture

B．science

C．Chinese

D．exercise

2.

A．controlled

B．searched

C．shared

D．packed

3.

A．unique

B．crazy

C．fast

D．caring

4.

A．Hopefully

B．Unluckily

C．Besides

D．However

5.

A．write

B．post

C．buy

D．read

6.

A．attractive

B．formal

C．annoying

D．frightening

7.

A．extreme

B．long

C．narrow

D．old

8.

A．title

B．source

C．economy

D．translation

9.

A．chance

B．difference

C．adventure

D．challenge

10.

A．toy

B．story

C．seat

D．taxi

11.

A．grows

B．sees

C．hears

D．rents

12.

A．difficult

B．confusing

C．outdated

D．suitable

13.

A．parent

B．friend

C．daughter

D．student

14.

A．gives

B．lends

C．mails

D．pays

15.

A．bed

B．bookshelf

C．desk

D．floor