Sears is currently working on a new book centered on a database of Chinese characters he created in the past two decades. (Photo : China Daily)
Years of living in China has made Uncle Hanzi a national sensation. Since his break to fame in 2012, Uncle Hanzi has captured the attention and hearts of many Chinese people.
Born as Richard Sears, the 65-year-old foreigner catapulted to fame when his story of spending his life savings to study Chinese touched the hearts of many.
Now his three-year work contract with Beijing Normal University has almost come to an end. From an 8,000-yuan apartment, he moved to a 3,000-yuan room and is currently seeking new employment.
The situation might seem dreary, but Uncle Hanzi is optimistic--and busy.
Sears is currently working on a new book centered on a database of Chinese characters he created in the past two decades.
"Previously, my work was building a database of Chinese characters where the etymologies could be traced. Now I'm trying to write a book helping foreigners learn Chinese characters," Sears shared in an interview with China Daily.
For Sears, his new book is a compilation of years of hard work. According to him, majority of the content has been approved by Chinese character experts. Meanwhile, 10 percent remains disputable.
The book, which is slated for release in March 2016, has already generated interest among Chinese publishing houses. Sears is doubtful, however, if it will gain traction in the market despite his trust in the content.
A self-described hippie, Sears was once a physics freshman at the University of Portland. An interest in Chinese drove him to purchase a one-way ticket to Taiwan. Now he speaks Mandarin like a native.
"I love China, I hope I can help more people understand China," Sears said.
