For thousands of years, perched on cut-off, precipitous cliffs in Sichuan's Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, the isolated Erping Village inhabited by Yi ethnic minorities in Wushidaqiao Township of Ganluo County has observed the civilization evolving at its feet, while silently guarding the lonely mountain.

Filled with a strong sense of ethnic identity and driven by a passion for education, Li Guilin and Lu Jianfen, a married couple both of the Yi ethnic minority, left their home in Hanyuan County of Sichuan's Ya'an city and took root in this remote village that can only be reached after climbing five very steep ladders, known by the locals as "ladders to Heaven." They have spent 19 years paving a path towards education and moral learning for the children living in the mountain district.

Above the "ladders to Heaven", the torch of hope is thus kindled, illuminating a vision of civilization.

In this book, the author uses plain narrative to describe a modern Chinese version of the Promethean myth. Just like the billowing Dadu River and the grand Jinkou Canyon near Emei Mountains, the couple's stories arouse nothing but a great awe!

What makes this book so gripping is its simple narration and beautiful illustrations that bring much aesthetic pleasure. Through vivid details, impressive moments of the couple's contribution throughout those 19 years are reproduced. Readers are also offered with a truthful depiction of the alluring landscapes in the region along with the colorful Yi customs.

Many people have been profoundly moved by what Li Guilin and Lu Jianfen have done, and they have in turn impressed the couple. The five hand-made wooden ladders are now replaced by secure and sturdy steel ladders. The ethnic unity and friendship demonstrated in their mutual sympathy and support are evidence of the Chinese people's moral values and the nation's long tradition as a land of great hospitalities.

Having read the manuscripts, I find three words may be properly used to illustrate what the couple has done for the villagers: wine, torch, and ladders. Wine and fire are highly valued by the Yi ethnic minority people. The Yi couple has lit the torch of knowledge for the children in the remote mountain village. Their ordinary but admirable life may be compared to wine, giving forth intoxicating aroma. Relating them to "ladders" is perhaps more appropriate in that it is by ascending those "ladders to heaven" they have helped build that the children have gained access to school, out from the mountains into the big world.

Time flies! It's a great delight to see the once isolated Erping Village and its helpless villagers have changed in the children's reading sound, and are striding forward towards civilization.

An illustrious era is in need of a great spiritual power. Li Guilin and Lu Jianfen have inspired us all with their selfless devotion and extraordinary perseverance.

Building and climbing the "ladders to Heaven," the two teachers virtually unknown to the general public have sacrificed their most precious years in life for helping those in need, which strikes us as the most awe-inspiring dedication in this illustrious era.

How lofty are the "ladders to Heaven!"

Zha Youliang