Journey to the West

[Creamsteak]

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/t...104-6209741-8971920?v=glance&s=books&n=507846

I'm wondering if I should pick up this set. I've been told numerous times that it would be well worth my time and money to read through these. However, I think I need more convincing or to be disueded on the issue. Would these books be reasonable to read? I've looked at some sample pages that are a bit difficult to read, though I could manage through them. Also, are they "read and shelve" books where you are unlikely to pick them up for a second read through, or are these books that I should purchase in hardcover to keep with me?

 

[Tonguez]

You can find good translations of Journey to West free online, so unless you like the convininece of books I wouldn't bother

 

[drnuncheon]

Are those the Anthony C Yu translations? They're pretty decent.

You might also try one of the 'abridged' versions, if you don't want to read through the whole thing (purists will weep now)...there's one entitled simply 'Monkey'.

Personally, I think I preferred Outlaws of the Marsh, but that one's hard to find.

J

 

[Creamsteak]

I'm mostly interested in the stories as they involve the Monkey, but I want almot all of the history and background behind him. The rest is likely as good though, so I doubt I'd be willing to just buy a book that focuses on the one character. The Yu translation is more expensive by about $30, but if you think that it is vastly superior, I'd be willing to go for it.