Huayi Brothers, one of China's biggest entertainment companies, is working on a television adaptation of late writer Bo Yang's novel "Kuang Ye" ("Wilderness"), Chinese media reported Thursday.

A leading producer with the company, Zhou Bingbing told the Chengdu Shangbao newspaper that screenwriters are studying the long novel and shooting is expected to begin next year.

The news came two days after the venerated 88-year-old author passed away of lung disease in Taipei. Yet Zhou says Huayi Brothers acquired the adaptation right of "Kuang Ye" as early as last year.

The novel, a love tragedy, was inspired by a true story Bo Yang heard from his university schoolmates. The writer once called the novel his personal favorite.

"Kuang Ye" was first published in Taiwan in 1961, and in the mainland last year.

(CRI May 2, 2008)