All images in Legend of the Phoenix are inspired by traditional Chinese culture, such as a city enveloped by clouds. [Photo provided to China Daily]

The appearance of the book's little boy, named Tuanzi, is based on his son. When Tuanzi goes into his dream, his appearance changes into a chubby boy wearing a red bellyband and a lock around his neck (which symbolizes longevity, according to traditional Chinese culture).

The image is commonly seen in woodblock paintings used for Spring Festival decorations.

Colors are another highlight of the picture book. Yang says colors favored by children are different from those favored by adults.

Children get excited by bright and vibrant tones while adults are comfortable with gray and subtle palettes, such as those found in the works of Italian painter Giorgio Morandi.

The protagonist of Legend of the Phoenix rides on a stone lion traveling back in time. [Photo provided to China Daily]

The main colors used in the book-red, green and yellow-are from porcelain pieces, murals and brocade work used in imperial times in China.

When Yang first showed the book to his 3-year-old son, the little boy was so excited that he kept yelling while staring at an image of fire, Yang says. "At that moment, I had the confidence that other kids would also like it."

Philippe Werck, publisher of Clavis Publishing, says it's the vibrant colors and vivid images of the book that touch him.

His publishing house will launch the book's English and Dutch versions later this year.

It is the first picture book by Yang, who has been influenced by Chinese culture through education.