"The target audience for children's books is from 0 to 100" — an interview with the artist whose work needs no translation

Cai Gao is the first Chinese illustrator to receive the Hans Christian Andersen Award for illustration. It is the highest international prize for writers and illustrators of children's books. Cai became its laureate in April. She says her books are meant for readers of all ages — not just children. This report is from CCTV+.

Cai Gao, who is 80, called the award a great honor and a recognition of the entire generation of Chinese artists who have devoted themselves to the development of childhood.

She explains: people always want their work to be understood. It is like calling out in an open space and suddenly hearing an echo. And that echo comes from different countries, from different people, crossing language barriers. Isn't that the greatest happiness and comfort? That is what she thinks. And she adds with a smile: she hopes everyone will go and see her works — because they look much better than she does.

In creating children's books, Cai focuses on the purity of childhood. She often remembers things from her early years. She sees childhood as something philosophical. She wants to return to basics and to her roots. She especially loves the babbling of streams — those clean, clear sounds that you only hear in childhood.

Over the years, Cai has created many illustrated stories based on Chinese culture. Among them are "Mulan", "The Boy Who Outfoxed the Fox", and "A Tale of Spring Peach Blossoms".

The artist always remembers that children's books are often read together — by children and their parents. She believes that such books should retain their value even after young readers grow up.

Cai says: the target audience for children's books is from zero to one hundred years. Why? Because these are books for shared reading between parents and children. An adult is present, and that adult will also find interesting ideas here. A picture book can stand alongside a masterpiece. A small picture book can have a great impact. So she believes: books for young children do not have to be small. You must give them the most interesting material to accompany their childhood. If a child grows up and still remembers that book — that will be true friendship