Book excerpt: Along China's Yellow River, a mighty and technologically advanced civilization grew and flourished for thousands of years without any contact from the rest of the world. Life in Ancient China explores the daily lives of early the Chinese people, profiles the great dynasties that ruled China over the centuries, and introduces important religious and philosophical contributions, such as Confucianism, Daosim, and Buddhism. Enduring Chinese innovations, such as writing, papermaking, and The Great Wall are also featured.