The tools of repairing ancient books. [Photo/Women of China]

"The steps of making paste seem simple. However, it is not easy to make good paste. When my teacher taught me how to make paste, he only told me to use two liang (100 grams) of flour, a little alum and the right amount of water. I needed to practice making paste again and again, before I knew the exact amount of alum and water needed … It took me two years to master the skills of making good paste," continues Zhao.

"It (ancient-book restoration) is a little boring. At that time, I asked myself if I wanted to do the work all my life. I thought about going to study cosmetology and hairdressing in Shenzhen. However, my parents stopped me. As I repaired books better and better, my teacher often praised me. When I saw a broken book regain its beauty, I had a sense of accomplishment. The (Chinese) government has paid more and more attention to the protection of ancient books since 2007. It is fortunate that I did not give up repairing ancient books," recalls Zhao.