is superb for dipping in and out of, particularly if you’re in search of a drop of practical wisdom. Commonly referred to as the ‘Old Master,’ Lao Tseu (4th century) is thought to have been born in the Hu district, part of the Henan province. What little is known about him suggests that he was a court astrologer and historian under the Zhou dynasty. According to legend, Tseu met Confucius and accused him of being too arrogant and ambitious. Subsequently, Confucius hailed him as something close to a dragon, seeing the world from above the clouds. Tseu’s travels are equally shrouded in mythology, with many stating that he travelled to the pass separating the Wei valleys and the Yellow River. There, he was challenged to write a book, by the guardian, Yinxi. The result was the ‘Daodejing,’ Tseu’s thoughts on the purpose and fulfilment of life.