A Geek in China : Discovering the Land of Bullet Trains, Alibaba and Dim Sum

Society of American Travel Writers Foundation GOLD Award Winner

For every fan of kung fu, steamed dumplings, Confucius and giant skyscrapers, A Geek in China is a hip, smart and concise guide to the Middle Kingdom. Packed with photographs and short articles on all aspects of Chinese culture, past and present, this guide introduces readers to everything from Taoism and Confucianism to pop music and China's new middle class.

Traditional culture mingles with contemporary life as chapters explore highlights of Chinese history, significant historical and mythological figures, traditional medicine, how the Chinese language works, real Chinese food, martial arts, and how the Chinese Communist Party works. You'll also discover what makes China unique today: why the country is so crowded, what it's like to work in an office, internet and cell phone culture, dating and marriage practices, top movies and movie stars, the contemporary art scene, and China's incredible new architecture and infrastructure.

Beyond the practical and cultural insights, you'll learn what makes the Chinese tick—the importance of harmony in society, the practice of humility, and the importance of hierarchy. For visitors to the country, helpful sections cover what to see (both common cultural sites and off-the-beaten-track destinations), how to get around, and guidance on visiting Hong Kong and Taiwan. This unique guide to the world's most populous and longest continuous culture provides essential information about China's past and present, helping readers understand the many references to history, politics, and pop culture that come up in everyday conversation and the media.