Looking for inspiration for his next book on panda adventure, Richard Mueller headed to the animal's homeland - China.

Arriving in Shanghai last Friday, Mueller was busy over the weekend to collect material for his book on the famous pandas Xsing Xsing and Ling Ling, which were presented to the United States in 1972.

He was also invited by the American-based Shangri-La Publications to China to find a Chinese publisher for his latest production "Zoonauts."

The book, which will be published in the United States in a few weeks, is a science fiction story for kids, complete with a cast of famous animals as the main characters.

Panda adventure, the sequel to "Zoonauts" will see Xsing Xsing and Ling Ling lead the famous animals to China for a host of adventures. Mueller expects the new book to be finished next spring.

"Around 34 years ago I came up with the idea of making a cartoon show of America's most famous animals but did not have enough money," said David Simon, Mueller's partner and the man who created the original concept for the book.

"China is progressing so much today that Westerners want to know more about the country. I hope children can learn Chinese culture and cultural differences through the funny experiences of these cartoon characters."

Mueller and Simon held a lecture for students at Jianping Middle School on Saturday.

"I have got some inspirations by talking with these students who are very eager to learn," Mueller said.

"I will soak up everything in China, absorbing all the sights and sounds," the author said, noting this is his first visit to the country.

Mueller and Simon will fly to Hangzhou, Beijing and Changchun for more lectures and research.

Mueller has written four books and 140 TV scripts since 1992, including several cartoon series such as X-MEN and Spiderman.

In 1972, the Chinese government sent the two pandas to the Washington National Zoo after US President Richard Nixon's historic visit to China.

(eastday.com October 13, 2003)