Who is this book for?
- This book would likely appeal to readers who are interested in gaining a more nuanced understanding of China's economic development and current state.
- It would be particularly suitable for those who want to challenge their preconceptions about China and are open to a perspective that is more sympathetic to China's approach.
- Business professionals, economists, and students of international relations who want to understand China's economic model and its global implications would find value in this book.
- Additionally, readers who appreciate a blend of economic analysis, cultural insights, and personal anecdotes would enjoy the author's approach.
Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?
- Readers who are strongly critical of China's government and economic policies may find this book frustrating, as it presents a more positive view of China's development than they might expect.
- Those seeking a highly critical analysis of China's human rights record, political system, or international behavior may be disappointed by the book's focus on economic matters and its tendency to downplay certain controversies.
- Individuals who prefer strictly academic or data-heavy economic analyses might find the cultural explanations and anecdotal evidence less satisfying.
- Lastly, readers who are looking for a comprehensive guide to China's future economic strategies, as suggested by the title, may be disappointed by the book's focus on explaining past and current economic phenomena rather than predicting future trends.
Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book
- Offers a nuanced and balanced view of China's economic rise, policies, and challenges
- Provides insights underappreciated by Western writers and government officials
- Explains China's economic development using basic economic principles
- Written by an author with a unique perspective, having experience in both Chinese and Western cultures
- Gives a clear and informative overview of modern China's political economy
- Offers crisp and satisfying economic analysis backed by data
- Provides a better understanding of the idiosyncrasies of China's economy and financial system
- Challenges common Western narratives about China
- Explains the complex reality of China's economic system, which combines elements of socialism and capitalism
- Offers valuable insights into China's culture, work ethic, and bureaucratic system
Things people didn't like as much about this book
- May be seen as biased or pro-China by some readers
- Glosses over or ignores some problematic topics and criticisms of China
- Relies too heavily on cultural explanations for economic phenomena
- Lacks deep examination of political differences between the U.S. and China
- Some arguments feel hand-wavy, particularly regarding culture and technology
- Does not fully address major challenges China will face in coming years
- Omits discussion of geopolitical tensions and crucial domestic political developments
- Fails to live up to its title of describing a 'new' China playbook
- Selectively omits certain critical developments in China
- Some readers find it to be a disinformation campaign or CCP propaganda
