On May 19, a three-day national mourning period began for the tens of thousands of people killed in a powerful earthquake that struck China's southwest on May 12. During this time the Foreign Languages Press staff worked day and night to publish a pictorial album entitled Wenchuan Earthquake Unites Hearts in China in both Chinese and English.

The album was designed to honor all those who died in the devastating earthquake and all the rescuers who worked in quake-hit areas. The book also displays moving scenes taken during the disaster as well as extreme sorrows and the dauntless Chinese spirit.

The powerful quake struck Sichuan Province at 2:28 p.m. on May 12, claiming tens of thousands of lives. With extreme grief has also come united hearts.

The Chinese government quickly responded to the disaster. Rescue workers have spared no efforts conducting relief work and the quake-hit areas have received both domestic and international aid. The staff at the Foreign Languages Press was so deeply moved by the nation’s unity that they became motivated to publish this pictorial album as a token of remembrance for all quake victims.

All profits from book sales will be contributed to the quake-struck areas. On May 25 Wenchuan Earthquake Unites Hearts in China went on sale at the Beijing Books Building.

(China.org.cn May 26, 2008)