Encyclopedia of China: The Essential Reference to China, its History and Culture

This is an American publication and must therefore reflect an American perception of China. This is not to detract from the accuracy of many of the entries, but simply to make the reader aware of their political correctness. For instance, the biographical entry for Chairman Mao makes little or no mention of his somewhat dubious personal life including his four marriages and many concubines. Entries are very “factual” with little biographical information that would bring them to life.

Nevertheless, the work is very thorough and well researched. Almost every aspect of China is covered (entries being in alphabetical order) and...