Book excerpt: Three Kingdoms, written by Ming Dynasty novelist Luo Guanzhong, is one of the four famous Chinese classics well-liked by people throughout the world till the present day. Exciting episodes of power struggles are staged against the backdrop of the states of Wei, Shu and Wu, which have emerged from the remnants of the Han Dynasty. What shines more brilliantly is the interplay of righteousness, loyalty, sincerity, benevolence and wisdom. This fully-illustrated compact edition brings you the highlights of the magnificent classic, including well-known episodes such as the oath of brotherhood at the Peach Garden, Liu Bei's three visits to Zhuge Liang's cottage, and the Battle of Red Cliff. It will also lead you through the ups and downs of the heroes of ancient times, at times admiring their courage, at other times lamenting their fate.