The characters and stories contained in this book are based on Chinese mythology and actual places and events. This might be difficult to believe, I realize. That is why I have included this proviso. There might also be a few anachronisms along the way, but it is all in the spirit of telling a good story.

 

Also interwoven throughout the tale are some comical references to the three major philosophical schools prevalent in China: Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism. I believe these competing systems helped to develop the country’s amazing and enduring culture. It all inspired me to create this work. A classical drawing entitled “The Vinegar Tasters” also supplied some of the story’s flavor.

 

At the very end I have included a glossary to help define some of the mysterious terms I have used. Because I did not want this story to sound like a lesson in Chinese Culture, I mentioned many of these terms without supplying definitions.

 

Mahjong itself has evolved over thousands of years. The version I present is more like the modern game than what was played at the time of this tale.