China: Its History and Culture

Rating:
Summary: Is China too big of a subject for a short book?
Review: I loved Scott Morton's book on Japan. The China book, however, was difficult to get through. I think part of the reason is that China is too big. I've tried other books on Chinese history and they all seem to have the same problem. There is so much going on its hard to get a feel for each time period. To get a more intimate look China's history would probably have to be studied by region (or by periods).

Rating:
Summary: It has very good facts
Review: I think the resons I gave it 4 stars is because in some parts it was confusing but in the most it was good. See I had a repport to write and the book realy stared me of with info.It was realy innteresting though.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent short history
Review: This book does an excellent job of condensing centuries of history into its most salient points. The authors manage to pick the biggest factors of change or stability in each time period, and do a good job of tieing in the high points of Chinese culture, including art, religion and philosophy. I read this book before my trip to China and felt very well briefed on the long and diverse history of the area, especially for such a short volume. I thought it was a great introduction to Chinese history and culture, and found many reference items included to follow up on. Well done.