Although Chinese is spoken by more people in the world than any other language, there are many different regional dialects which are incomprehensible to people living outside the particular region. However,the Chinese script is the same regardless of the dialect,and this unites the Chinese-speaking world. In fact, it also embraces neighbouring countries such as Japan,Korea and Vietnam, all of which originally used Chinese script but which have now developed writing systems of their own, sometimes mixed with Chinese characters.

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Chinese script is one of the oldest forms of writing in existence.Its origins can be traced back to at least the second millennium BC and it is still in use today, over 3000 years later. Calligraphy,the creation of the written characters on paper with brush and ink, has traditionally been revered as one of the highest forms of Chinese art.

Standard style or regular script (kaishu), with its own distinct combination of legibility and elegance, has been fundamental to the calligrapher's art since the end of the Han dynasty in the third century AD. This introductory workbook now makes it possible for everyone to learn and enjoy the beauty of Chinese calligraphy. Building on his wide experience of running workshops and demonstrations for beginners,Qu Lei has distilled the basics into an easy-to-follow, teach-yourself guide.