Recently discovered ancient texts dating to the third century BCE and earlier inform the groundbreaking interpretations presented here on the emergence and spread of literacy in Chinese society. The long-term stability of Chinese written language provides unique insights into literacy"s role in early civilization. Li Feng is professor of early Chinese history and archaeology at Columbia University. David Prager Branner is retired as a professor of Chinese at the University of Maryland. The other contributors are Anthony Barbieri-Low, William Boltz, Constance Cook, Lothar von Falkenhausen, David Pankenier, Matthias Richter, Adam Smith, Ken-ichi Takashima, and Robin Yates. "Elucidate[s] the origins, early development and structure of the Chinese script, but also discuss[es] material aspects, practical uses, and social contexts . . . fascinating." --Oliver Weingarten, Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies