The book compiled by professor Miao Huaiming and his students collects numerous interesting reflections on the Chinese literary classic A Dream of Red Mansions. [Photo/jschina.com.cn]

A book compiled by professor Miao Huaiming and his students from the School of Chinese Language and Literature at Nanjing University, which collected numerous interesting reflections on the Chinese literary classic A Dream of Red Mansions, was recently published, local media reported June 22.

The book included many interesting problems, which raised heated discussions between Miao and his students. For example, on the question of whether the main character, Jiao Baoyu, was good enough for Lin Daiyu, and who would deserve the talented lady, the students recommended Cao Zhi, one of China's major poets who was noted for ethereal lyricism. For the question about what kind of job was suitable for Jia Baoyu, some students said he was good for nothing while others said he would be a good cosmetics salesman as his eyes and mind were on girls every day.

Professor Miao said reading and reflecting on A Dream of Red Mansions from different angles had raised the students' interest to dig more into the literary classic. The students were also eager to "do matchmaking" between different literary classics, which can help them deepen their understanding of Chinese literature.

"The edutainment way offers modern perspectives on literary classics and encourages the younger generation to digest as much as possible," said the professor. "I think literature is alive and I hope everyone can appreciate its charm and vitality."