Yang graduated from the art school of Tsinghua University, majoring in brocade art. He then studied design at Shandong University for his master's degree. He will go to Zhejiang University this month to study porcelain art for his PhD program.

He worked on the book while studying in Shandong province. At that time, he also remotely worked as a design director for a textile company in Ningbo, Zhejiang province.

Yang created the book along with his team of four schoolmates, who work in such fields as urban planning, industrial design and environmental art. They mostly worked at night-usually from 8 pm to early morning.

"It's like producing a film, and I'm the director," says Yang.

Talking about his future plans, Yang says Legend of the Phoenix is a beginning on his "road to picture books for children".

The book's folklore shows the virtues of sharing with others and being kindhearted, which the author says are found in Chinese culture. And there're more for him to explore. Of course, all will be integrated with elements from Chinese art.

"I hope my books can provide an alternative to parents who want their kids to learn more about Chinese culture," says Yang.