Collection of Stories in Chinese History, aimed at children and teens, was published in June as a culmination of work begun 50 years ago. [Photo provided to China Daily]

The life's work of a Chinese writer, begun half a century ago, has finally been completed with the release of a 10-volume history series.

Professor Kang Zhen of Beijing Normal University said the Chunqiu Stories and Zhanguo Stories that his mother saved money to buy for him as a young student are books to have had a great influence on him.

"I was captivated by its vivid language and beautiful illustrations whose creators are well-known masters," said Kang, adding that it’s his hobby to reproduce the drawings.

Like Kang, million of Chinese have been enlightened and inspired by history storybooks from childhood reading.