Chao-xing (from Shanghai)

Chao-xing (pronounced CHOW-seen) is a craftswoman in the paper lantern trade. She lives and works in Shanghai (pronounced Shang-HIGH), a large city on the east coast of China in eastern Asia.

She is one of three children. Her father Huang is a retired surgeon. Her mother Lan has been a storekeep her entire life. Both of her brothers, Nianzu and Chen, are doctors in the Chinese capital of Beijing.

While her father was focused on making sure that his sons became doctors, Chao-xing learned to construct paper lanterns from her mother. They’re sold in the family store. Her designs are a favorite of locals and tourists alike. It took many years, but Huang now respects his daughter’s talent and entrepreneurial spirit.

When she isn’t sculpting, Chao-xing enjoys simple pleasures. She visits city gardens, rides along the city’s waterways, and writes poetry. She appreciates the intersection of old and new that characterizes Shanghai. She has studied and practiced many forms of poetry. She won a contest for “Morning Star,” a homage to her name. Her favorite is haiku.

Chao-xing is single but would like to adopt a daughter.

Meet Her Guests!

• Raisa (the owner of the tablet)
• Hendrix (her companion, the fox)
• Ogul (the genie of the tablet)

Learn more about Shanghai, China.