This book is a captivating and humorous account of an American photographer’s journey to China, where he encounters various challenges, surprises, and wonders. The author, Axel Forrester, writes with a witty and engaging style that makes the reader feel like they are traveling along with him. The book is full of vivid descriptions, cultural insights, and personal anecdotes that bring the Chinese landscape and people to life.

The book follows Grant Decker, a photographer from Cornwall, who accepts an invitation from his ex-girlfriend, Charon, to join a group of American teachers on a trip to China. However, he soon discovers that Charon has a hidden agenda that involves smuggling some sensitive documents out of the country. Grant finds himself in a precarious situation, as he tries to balance his professional and personal interests, while avoiding the scrutiny of the Chinese authorities.

Along the way, he meets some fascinating characters, such as Guy Anderson, a mysterious British expat who seems to know everything about China; Dr Sòng, a friendly and helpful guide who introduces him to the local culture and cuisine; the Mosuo people, a matriarchal society that lives by the shores of Lugu Lake; and the Chinese barber/musicians in Dali, who offer him a memorable haircut and a musical performance.

The book is not only entertaining, but also informative and educational. The author provides a lot of information about the history, geography, politics, economy, and society of China, as well as some useful tips and advice for travelers. The book also explores some of the contrasts and contradictions that exist in China, such as the ancient and the modern, the rural and the urban, the traditional and the innovative. The book also reflects on some of the common stereotypes and misconceptions that Westerners have about China, and how they can be challenged or confirmed by reality.

The book is well-written, well-researched, and well-organized. The author uses a conversational tone and a simple language that makes the book easy to follow and understand. The author also includes some photos that he took during his trip, which add to the visual appeal of the book. The book is not too long or too short, but rather has a good pace and balance.

Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn more about China or enjoy a fun and adventurous story. This book will make you laugh, think, and feel. This book will take you on a Chinese odyssey that you will never forget. ( )

*****Free Copy received for reviewing *********
It was very OK. It lacked introspection from the main character . I couldn't feel empathy for any character .I'd have liked to know more about them as a whole , the good and the bad. But it reads fast and the pace is quite enjoyable . Way more than some bestsellers on the market in the recent years . ( )

A light, sweet cross-cultural adventure in which photographer Grant Decker, having acclimated to the culture clash between Northern California and Cornwall, now finds himself encountering end-of-the-millennium China and its attempts to host tourists from the West. The novel has fun spoofing a sheltered group of California teachers, and the endurance of old China hands, but also taps into the role played by Chinese work units, and the family life of ethnic minorities across the country and the universal resonance created by meeting them.
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