Mao Dun's serial novel The Young Printer,published in the semimonthly The New Youth in 1936,centers on Zhao Yuansheng(赵元生),a high school dropout who navigates the challenges of working in a paper mill and a printing house.Set against the backdrop of China's fight against Japanese aggression,the novel reflects the resilience and determination of the Chinese people.The story,chronicling the experiences of the 15-year-old protagonist,emphasizes themes of intelligence,diligence,and self-improvement.Furthermore,the novel provides young readers with scientific insights into the processes of papermaking and printing.Illustrated with 19 drawings,the serial enhances its narrative,offering a vivid visual representation that complements its thematic exploration.