搜神記 volume 1-3

A vivid tapestry of ancient Chinese myth unfolds, introducing a parade of legendary figures whose powers blur the line between mortal and divine. From the herbal master Shennong, who can discern the hidden nature of every plant, to the rain‑bringing Red Pine Master who walks through fire unharmed, each vignette offers a glimpse into a world where the extraordinary is everyday. The narrative weaves together tales of immortal craftsmen, fire‑wielding sages, and enigmatic wanderers who command wind, rain, and even the shapes of animals.

These early episodes pulse with wonder, presenting characters such as the ageless Peng Zu, who lives seven hundred years on a diet of mystical mushrooms, and the mischievous left‑handed magician who summons fish from a bronze basin. Their exploits—miraculous healings, uncanny transformations, and daring journeys to sacred mountains—create a rich mosaic of folklore that invites listeners to explore the strange and magical foundations of Chinese cultural imagination.