This is a concise, systematic and illuminating introduction to the ways in which China as a complex nation-state works and is experienced by the Chinese during the tumultuous two and half decades of reform.

Adam Yuet Chau, University of London

Timothy Cheek provides readers with a lively introduction to the key dilemmas facing the world's most populous country.

Jeffrey N. Wasserstrom, University of California

Timothy Cheek offers a remarkably comprehensive and perceptive account of Chinese history in the post-Mao era.

Maurice Meisner, University of Wisconsin at Madison

Thought-provoking and thoroughly-argued.

S. K. Ma, Choice