Reading

Du Chinese

Du Chinese is a powerful tool that makes learning Chinese simple and effective. The in-built dictionary lets you look up the meaning of any word with a simple tap, and shows you what the word means in that particular sentence. You can also listen to the professional and friendly audio made by native teachers. In addition, Du Chinese has over 1 000 Chinese lessons with 5-6 new lessons added every week. Thee only downside is that new content isn’t added as frequently as for The Chairman’s Bao. However, it’s a little better for beginner level learners.

Appropriate Level: Elementary, Intermediate

The Chairman’s Bao

The Chairman’s Bao is a comprehensive news-based graded reader designed specifically for Chinese learners. Widely used in over 350 schools and universities worldwide, it offers a vast collection of over 1,600 new HSK-graded lessons each year. This platform provides an excellent way to stay updated on current events while improving your Chinese skills.

Appropriate Level: Intermediate, Advanced

小红书

小红书 is probably THE most popular Chinese social media platform among young people that blends lifestyle content with user-generated reviews and recommendations. Known for its focus on fashion, beauty, travel, and daily life, 小红书 allows users to discover and share experiences through posts, photos, and videos. For Chinese learners like you, it’s a valuable resource to immerse yourself in contemporary language and culture. By exploring user posts and reviews, you can learn practical vocabulary, slang, and expressions used in everyday conversations. Engage with content that interests you and gain insights into current trends while improving your Chinese language skills.

Appropriate Level: Advanced, Near-Native

WordSwing

Wordswing is a unique blend of a graded reader and a "choose your own adventure" game. As you progress through the stories, you'll make decisions that shape how the plot unfolds, keeping you engaged while practicing Chinese. It stands out as one of the few resources that actively encourages you to use the language in real-time as you read. However, the stories are geared more toward a teenage audience, so approach it primarily as a fun and entertaining way to enhance your learning.

Appropriate Level: Intermediate, Advanced