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Q: Which books have you read about China, or Chinese history?
Breaking my forum cherry with my first topic post here,
Although I have studied Chinese language for several years, I realized I don't really know much about China at ALL, much less history. I was always just focused on the communication aspect, and the China I have come to see over the years is no more than the day in - day out DEATH SMOG, RANCID smells, the either worshipping or hating attitude towards foreigners (hardly seems to be a middle ground), the *problems* China poses to my gastrointestinal system... and the list can go on and on. I realized I can't tell you much even in terms of semi recent history.
I've had a few China books in my room , but not being much of a reader beyond fantasy or Sci-Fi, I hadn't even as much as touched them, until forcing myself today. I felt like I could learn something by doing so. I'm hoping the book I'm reading now can help me see China in a more positive light than what I currently see it as. If not, at least I will be able to erase a few of the many question marks I have about this country.
Anybody do much reading about China?
12 years 7 weeks ago in General - Other cities
Get your music playing device hooked up to the China History podcast.
"Stillwell and the American experience in China" by Barbara Tuchman was a great read. Joseph Stillwell was a US general who lived many years in China, he loved the people but was aware of the hard realities. He fought during the WW2, with US and Chinese troops under his command.
A recent biography of Deng Xiao Ping by a US scholar, my wife read it and loved it.
Hm. Between those two I'd go for the biography, that could do me some good. I'm currently reading a novel called "My Country and My People.“
For history, try this : http://www.amazon.com/China-A-History-John-Keay/dp/0465025188
For recent history there are loads of books to be found. There is a recent book written by a Dutchman that won an award.
Do teachers not teach students how to do internet research? Go to Amazon on your kindle and search "China".
The Terracotta Warriors. Might give you an insight into why the Chinese think like they do and that 2200 year connection.
Note: NOT 5000 year.
Tombstone, about the great leap forward, which in turn led to the cultural revolution.
Business leadership in China - Pretty good insight into the mind sight of Chinese workers and managers
