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The Invention of China
New
Bill Hayton | Yale University Press

The Invention of China

from $9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.06

from $9.90

In stock: Like New

If you've ever been enthralled by the idea of China as this monolithic entity with a seamless historical narrative, Bill Hayton's "The Invention of China" will intrigue you. It's a fascinating examination of the nation's history, offering a critical look at the creation of China's national identity. Delving into this book could change the way you understand national myths and their purpose in shaping political futures.
The World Turned Upside Down: America, China, and the Struggle for Global Leadership - Thryft
Clyde Prestowitz | Yale University Press

The World Turned Upside Down: America, China, and the Struggle for Global Leadership

$14.51 from $9.90 Save up to 34%

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$14.51 from $9.90 Save up to 34%

In stock: Like New

If you're intrigued by international relations and the shifting dynamics of global power, then Clyde Prestowitz's 'The World Turned Upside Down' will be a compelling read. It takes you beyond the headlines, offering a deep dive into how China's ascent is reshaping the world order and the strategies the West could employ to respond. Prestowitz pairs expertise with clear exposition, avoiding partisan bias, which makes this book essential for anyone looking to understand the modern geopolitical landscape.
The Living House: An Anthropology of Architecture in South-East Asia
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Roxana Waterson | Oxford University Press

The Living House: An Anthropology of Architecture in South-East Asia

from $12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.16

from $12.90

In stock: Very Good

If you're intrigued by how a region's culture can shape its architecture, "The Living House" offers a fascinating journey through the homes of South-East Asia. It champions the idea that these structures are not just buildings but are also a reflection of the lives and traditions of the people who inhabit them. This book is a beautiful convergence of anthropology and design, a narrative with the power to make you see buildings as breathing embodiments of culture.
Vietnam : Rising Dragon - Thryft
Bill Hayton | Yale University Press

Vietnam : Rising Dragon

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Goodreads rating: 3.86

$8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 37%

In stock: Very Good

This book is a colorful tapestry of Vietnam's transformation from an insider's perspective. Bill Hayton's experience as a journalist brings to life the hustle of booming cities, the tension of an evolving society straddling capitalism and communism, and the complex political landscape. It's an enlightening read for anyone fascinated by socioeconomic change and the nuanced journey of a country rapidly joining the global stage. Whether you're a political aficionado or a cultural voyeur, "Vietnam: Rising Dragon" offers a profound look at the nation's ambitions and the challenges it faces.
Reconstructing God: Style, Hydraulics, Political Power and Angkor's West Mebon Visnu
Marnie Feneley | National University Of Singapore Press

Reconstructing God: Style, Hydraulics, Political Power and Angkor's West Mebon Visnu

from $40.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

from $40.90

In stock: Like New

As someone intrigued by the mystical allure of ancient art and the sophisticated engineering of bygone civilizations, "Reconstructing God" could offer you a profound dive into Angkor's rich history. Marnie Feneley's meticulous research, intersecting archaeology, art history, and digital technology, resurrects the grandeur of the West Mebon Visnu and its significance in the context of political and hydraulic power. This book promises to refresh your understanding of the iconic ruins and inspire awe for Southeast Asia's cultural achievements.
By Steppe, Desert, and Ocean: The Birth of Eurasia
New
Barry Cunliffe | Oxford University Press

By Steppe, Desert, and Ocean: The Birth of Eurasia

from $17.90

Goodreads rating: 4.3

from $17.90

In stock: Very Good

If you're mesmerized by how our interconnected world came to be, "By Steppe, Desert, and Ocean" is your time machine. Barry Cunliffe takes you through a 10,000-year journey that stitches together the tapestry of human civilization. It's a read that's as vast as the Eurasian continent itself, revealing how geography shaped history and how distant cultures began threading into one another, leading to the complex global society we recognize today.
China and Historical Capitalism: Genealogies of Sinological Knowledge - Thryft
Timothy Brook, Gregory Blue  | Cambridge University Press

China and Historical Capitalism: Genealogies of Sinological Knowledge

$46.90 from $34.90 Save up to 27%

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$46.90 from $34.90 Save up to 27%

In stock: Very Good

If you've ever wondered how views of economic history can be colored by the lens through which they're examined, "China and Historical Capitalism" might intrigue you. This book digs into how Western interpretations of capitalism have overshadowed other global narratives. It's a thoughtful read for anyone interested in understanding the complex intersection between cultural perception and historical economic systems, and particularly relevant if you're interested in the dynamics of East-West relations in the context of capitalist discourse.
Southeast Asia in World History
Craig A. Lockard | Oxford University Press

Southeast Asia in World History

from $13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.59

from $13.90

In stock: Well Read

If history fascinates you, especially the interweaving of culture, commerce, and conquest, then Lockard's "Southeast Asia in World History" is up your alley. The author brings out the essence of an entire region through a narrative that connects its past to the present. He deftly illustrates the autonomy and adaptability of Southeast Asians, casting light on their global significance today. It's not just history, it's a story of resilience and cultural treasure you might not have known.
The South China Sea : The Struggle for Power in Asia - Thryft
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Bill Hayton | Yale University Press

The South China Sea : The Struggle for Power in Asia

$8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

Out of stock

If you have an interest in international relations or geopolitical strategy, "The South China Sea: The Struggle for Power in Asia" will grip you with its detailed dive into one of the world's most tense and critical regions. Bill Hayton brings the disputes to life, helping you understand the myriad of interests clashing over this pivotal maritime territory. The stakes are high here – control over vital trade routes, national security concerns, and the potential for conflict amongst global powers – which makes this book not just informative but also a compelling read for anyone keen to grasp the complex dynamics shaping our world's political landscape.
China's Economy: What Everyone Needs to Know
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Arthur R. Kroeber | Oxford University Press

China's Economy: What Everyone Needs to Know

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.27

from $8.90

Out of stock

If you're keen on understanding global economics and politics, "China's Economy: What Everyone Needs to Know" can offer you a comprehensive look into how China ascended from poverty to a powerhouse. It's not just about dry facts; it's a captivating narrative woven from extensive research and firsthand accounts, crucial for anyone fascinated by this giant's paradoxical existence of capitalist markets under communist rule. This book could significantly demystify the country's complex economic systems and its effect on the world stage.
The English governess at the Siamese court - being recollections of six years in the royal palace at Bangkok - Thryft
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Anna Harriette Leonowens | Oxford University Press

The English governess at the Siamese court - being recollections of six years in the royal palace at Bangkok

from $8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.37

from $8.26

Out of stock

If you're intrigued by royal dynamics and cross-cultural exchanges, Leonowens’s memoir could be a good read for you. It offers an authentic peek into 19th-century Siam through the eyes of an English governess. Her unique perspective as an educator and her close interactions with the royal family provide historical enthusiasts and memoir readers with rich, cultural insights that are both educational and entertaining.
The East Asian Region : Confucian Heritage and Its Modern Adaptation - Thryft
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Gilbert Rozman | Princeton University Press

The East Asian Region : Confucian Heritage and Its Modern Adaptation

from $6.30

Goodreads rating: 4.0

from $6.30

Out of stock

The contributors to this volume range over 2,000 years of history as they show how Confucian values spread throughout the region in premodern times and how these values were transformed in an age of modernization. The introduction by Gilbert Rozman discusses the special character of East Asia. In Part I Patricia Ebrey analyzes the Confucianization of China; JaHyun Kim Haboush, that of Korea; and Martin Collcutt, the much later diffusion of Confucianism in Japan. In Part II Rozman compares types of Confucianism in nineteenth-century China and Japan and their adaptability in the twentieth century, while Michael Robinson adds an overview of modern Korean perceptions of Confucianism.Originally published in 1990.The Princeton Legacy Library uses the latest print-on-demand technology to again make available previously out-of-print books from the distinguished backlist of Princeton University Press. These editions preserve the original texts of these important books while presenting them in durable paperback and hardcover editions. The goal of the Princeton Legacy Library is to vastly increase access to the rich scholarly heritage found in the thousands of books published by Princeton University Press since its founding in 1905.
Hard at Work: Life in Singapore
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Gerard Sasges, Ng Shi Wen  | National University Of Singapore Press

Hard at Work: Life in Singapore

from $15.90

Goodreads rating: 4.16

from $15.90

Out of stock

This book is a captivating exploration of the lives of Singapore's workers, giving you a glimpse into the complexities and diversity of their experiences. From ice cream uncles to academic ghostwriters, the author delves into the daily realities and emotions that shape their lives. Through vivid storytelling, Hard at Work offers a thought-provoking snapshot of Singapore's working population, revealing the hidden stories and challenges that often go unnoticed. It's a must-read for anyone curious about the intricate tapestry of Singaporean society and the people behind the jobs. So, grab a copy and get ready to be enthralled by the tales within!
The Memoirs of Lady Hyegyong : The Autobiographical Writings of a Crown Princess of Eighteenth-Century Korea - Thryft
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Lady Hyegyeong, JaHyun Kim Haboush  | University Of California Press

The Memoirs of Lady Hyegyong : The Autobiographical Writings of a Crown Princess of Eighteenth-Century Korea

from $18.88

Goodreads rating: 4.01

from $18.88

Out of stock

The Memoirs of Lady Hyegyong offers a fascinating glimpse into Korean court life of the eighteenth-century. The book's unique feature is its depiction of a deeply intelligent and articulate woman amidst conflicting passions, political intrigue, and daily concerns. Readers interested in historical and cultural perspectives will find this autobiography a worthy read.
The Third Revolution : Xi Jinping and the New Chinese State - Thryft
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Elizabeth C. Economy | Oxford University Press

The Third Revolution : Xi Jinping and the New Chinese State

$8.82 from $6.17 Save up to 30%

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$8.82 from $6.17 Save up to 30%

Out of stock

The Third Revolution could be a good read for anyone interested in understanding the political and economic transformation underway in China under Xi Jinping's leadership. The book covers a wide range of topics including corruption, innovation, environmental concerns, and global presence, providing an in-depth analysis of each. This book is recommended for readers who are interested in understanding China's standing in global affairs and how China's evolution will impact the world in the future.
Haunted by Chaos : China's Grand Strategy from Mao Zedong to XI Jinping - Thryft
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Sulmaan Wasif Khan | Harvard University Press

Haunted by Chaos : China's Grand Strategy from Mao Zedong to XI Jinping

from $15.04

Goodreads rating: 3.89

from $15.04

Out of stock

Before the Chinese Communist Party came to power, China lay broken and fragmented. Today it is a force on the global stage, and yet its leaders have continued to be haunted by the past. Drawing on an array of sources, Sulmaan Wasif Khan chronicles the grand strategies that have sought not only to protect China from aggression but also to ensure it would never again experience the powerlessness of the late Qing and Republican eras.The dramatic variations in China's modern history have obscured the commonality of purpose that binds the country's leaders. Analyzing the calculus behind their decision making, Khan explores how they wove diplomatic, military, and economic power together to keep a fragile country safe in a world they saw as hostile. Dangerous and shrewd, Mao Zedong made China whole and succeeded in keeping it so, while the caustic, impatient Deng Xiaoping dragged China into the modern world. Jiang Zemin and Hu Jintao served as cautious custodians of the Deng legacy, but the powerful and deeply insecure Xi Jinping has shown an assertiveness that has raised both fear and hope across the globe.For all their considerable costs, China's grand strategies have been largely successful. But the country faces great challenges today. Its population is aging, its government is undermined by corruption, its neighbors are arming out of concern over its growing power, and environmental degradation threatens catastrophe. A question Haunted by Chaos raises is whether China's time-tested approach can respond to the looming threats of the twenty-first century.
The Art of Not Being Governed: An Anarchist History of Upland Southeast Asia
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James C. Scott | Yale University Press

The Art of Not Being Governed: An Anarchist History of Upland Southeast Asia

from $11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.14

from $11.90

Out of stock

If you're intrigued by the untold stories of people living on the fringes of society, "The Art of Not Being Governed" will be a revelation. It's not just a history book; it's an exploration of the human spirit's desire for autonomy. James C. Scott takes you on an odyssey through Zomia, introducing you to cultures that prioritized freedom over the constraints of statehood, a concept that challenges our understanding of civilization and governance. This book will shift your perspective and offer a deep dive into the lives of those who chose to exist outside the state's reach.
Five Spice Street - Thryft
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Can Xue, Karen Gernant, Zeping Chen  | Yale University Press

Five Spice Street

from $5.46

Goodreads rating: 3.32

from $5.46

Out of stock

Five Spice Street is a surreal and thought-provoking novel that explores the collective consciousness of ordinary people living in an unnamed city. Through the character of Madam X, the author delves into existential anxieties and the struggle with identity. This book will appeal to those who enjoy literary fiction that challenges the reader to think deeply about the human condition.
Five Spice Street - Thryft
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Can Xue, Karen Gernant, Zeping Chen  | Yale University Press

Five Spice Street

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.32

from $8.90

Out of stock

"Five Spice Street" could be a mesmerizing journey for you if you're drawn to books that blend reality with the fantastic, challenging you to question the nature of truth and perception. Can Xue weaves a tapestry of intrigue around the enigmatic Madam X that captures the collective consciousness and showcases the rich complexity of human nature. Its dream-like narrative might change the way you think about the stories we tell ourselves about others.
Red Flags : Why Xi's China Is in Jeopardy - Thryft
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George Magnus | Yale University Press

Red Flags : Why Xi's China Is in Jeopardy

from $11.59

Goodreads rating: 3.72

from $11.59

Out of stock

This book could be a good read for someone interested in understanding the complexities of China's economic growth and the potential risks it faces. George Magnus provides an in-depth analysis of the key challenges including debt, middle income, the Renminbi, and an aging population, and examines how these factors could hinder China's continued rise. Not only does he explore economic issues, but Magnus also delves into the political direction of President Xi Jinping and its compatibility with China's economic aspirations. With thorough research and a critical perspective, this book offers valuable insights into the potential conflicts over trade, China's relationship with Trump, and its Belt and Road initiative in Eurasia.
Orientations : Mapping Studies in the Asian Diaspora - Thryft
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Kandice Chuh, Karen Shimakawa  | Duke University Press Books

Orientations : Mapping Studies in the Asian Diaspora

$11.11 from $6.90 Save up to 49%

Goodreads rating: 3.56

$11.11 from $6.90 Save up to 49%

Out of stock

Orientations offers insightful perspectives on the intersections of Asian diaspora, globalization, and postcolonialism. The essays within the book delve into various issues such as the strategies of Filipino immigrants enacting an Asian American identity and the role of Asian Americans within U.S. racial politics. The contributors provide a deep understanding of the complexities of Asian diaspora in contemporary society and how race and globalization intersect with it.
A History of Japan, 1615-1867 - Thryft
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George Bailey Sansom | Stanford University Press

A History of Japan, 1615-1867

from $9.34

Goodreads rating: 4.09

from $9.34

Out of stock

This book would be a great read for anyone interested in the political and social development of Japan during the Tokugawa Shogunate. The author provides a comprehensive overview of this period, including the government's efforts to maintain the peace, increase production, and resist Western pressure to open up the country. Readers will appreciate the detailed descriptions and factual accounts, as well as the author's pragmatic interpretations and comparisons with other cultures.
Asian Aesthetics - Thryft
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Ken-ichi Sasaki | National University Of Singapore Press

Asian Aesthetics

from $11.54

Goodreads rating: 3.0

from $11.54

Out of stock

This book would be a good read for those who are curious about the artistic traditions and aesthetics of various Asian cultures. Through expert analysis and insights from specialists in different fields, it offers a comprehensive understanding of the commonalities and distinctive features of Asian aesthetics. Whether you are passionate about art, interested in philosophy, or simply fascinated by different cultures, this book will take you on a journey to explore the rich and diverse world of Asian aesthetics.
Chen Village : Revolution to Globalization - Thryft
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Richard Madsen, Jonathan Unger, Anita Chan  | University Of California Press

Chen Village : Revolution to Globalization

$13.18 from $7.90 Save up to 47%

Goodreads rating: 3.64

$13.18 from $7.90 Save up to 47%

Out of stock

This book would be a good read for those interested in China's transformation from a Maoist village to a modern-day industrial center. It provides an in-depth account of how a once-impoverished village became a hub of China's export industry. The book's unique feature is its ability to encapsulate the continuous transformation of rural China from revolution to globalization. Readers can expect to gain insight into China's social, political, and economic changes over the last few decades.
Returning Southeast Asia's Past: Objects, Museums, and Restitution - Thryft
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Louise Tythacott, Gabrielle Abbe, Panggah Ardiyansyah  | National University Of Singapore Press

Returning Southeast Asia's Past: Objects, Museums, and Restitution

from $6.34

Goodreads rating: 5.0

from $6.34

Out of stock

For the past century and a half, extensive looting and illicit trafficking of Southeast Asia's cultural heritage have scattered art objects from the region to museums and private collections around the world. Today, however, power relations are shifting, a new awareness is growing, and new questions are emerging about the representation and ownership of Southeast Asian cultural material located in the West. This book offers a timely consideration of object restitution and related issues across Southeast Asia, bringing together a range of viewpoints, including those of museum professionals and scholars in Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, as well as Europe, North America, and Australia. The contributors address legal, cultural, political and diplomatic issues involved in the restitution process, and they also look at the ways object restitution is integral to evolving narratives of national identity. Ultimately, the book’s editors conclude, restitution processes can transform narratives of loss into opportunities for gain, building knowledge and reconstructing relationships across national borders.
The Reluctant Communist: My Desertion, Court-Martial, and Forty-Year Imprisonment in North Korea - Thryft
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Jim Frederick, Charles Robert Jenkins  | University Of California Press

The Reluctant Communist: My Desertion, Court-Martial, and Forty-Year Imprisonment in North Korea

$6.90 from $4.90 Save up to 38%

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$6.90 from $4.90 Save up to 38%

Out of stock

This book would be a good read for anyone interested in true stories of resilience and survival in the face of extreme adversity. Charles Robert Jenkins' harrowing memoir takes readers on a journey into the inner workings of North Korea's isolated society and provides a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit. Through his gripping storytelling, Jenkins offers a unique perspective on his years spent in captivity, making this a compelling and unforgettable read.
Xinjiang, The Silk Road - Islam's Overland Route To China - Thryft
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Peter Yung | Oxford University Press

Xinjiang, The Silk Road - Islam's Overland Route To China

from $5.07

Goodreads rating: 4.0

from $5.07

Out of stock

This book is perfect for anyone who loves immersive travel stories. The captivating photographs and detailed descriptions make readers feel like they are right there, experiencing the journey themselves. The book also provides a fascinating glimpse into the diverse cultures and peoples that make up the Xinjiang region.
House Home Family : Living and Being Chinese - Thryft
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Ronald G. Knapp | University Of Hawaii Press

House Home Family : Living and Being Chinese

from $12.15

Goodreads rating: 4.25

from $12.15

Out of stock

Drawing on the work of leading scholars in the fields of anthropology, architecture, art, art history, geography, and history, House Home Family explores and analyzes the functional, social, and symbolic attributes of Chinese dwellings. It goes beyond generalization to clarify the diverse nature of house, home, and family in China, exploring such topics as the Chinese garden as an integral part of living, house-building ritual and fengshui, architectural aesthetics, the inter-relatedness of furniture and architecture, preservation of historical structures, the structure and development of the family (jia), gender and household space, the role of lineage in the construction of ritual and social space, the function and meaning of the architectural division of space, and domestic space and privacy. The Chinese house, the elementary space in which a family lives and works, resonates the tensions between continuity and innovation that characterize China today. As a dynamic instrument of socialization and a domain of propriety, its "inner" and "outer" spaces as well as ornamentation and ritual helped shape the identity of the Chinese and simultaneously serve as a reflection of this identity. This inaugural volume in the series Spatial Making and Meaning in Asia’s Vernacular Architecture contains more than five hundred illustrations, most in color and including a number of rare drawings that demonstrate the richness of domestic architecture and living patterns in traditional and contemporary China. Through its exploration of how Chinese families are organized and why Chinese construct their living spaces the way they do, this carefully researched, convincingly argues, and refreshingly insightful book yields a deeper and wider understanding of what it means to live and be Chinese. Nancy Berliner, Maggie Bickford, Francesca Bray, Myron L. Cohen, David Faure, James Flath, Wen Fong, Puaypeng Ho, Nancy Jervis, Ronald G. Knapp, Cary Liu, Kai-Yin Lo, Nancy Shatzman Steinhardt, Joseph Wang, Yan Yunxiang.
Southeast Asia in World History - Thryft
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Craig A. Lockard | Oxford University Press

Southeast Asia in World History

from $13.76

Goodreads rating: 3.59

from $13.76

Out of stock

Here is a brief, well-written, and lively survey of the history of Southeast Asia from ancient times to the present, paying particular attention to the region's role in world history and the distinctive societies that arose in lands shaped by green fields and forests, blue rivers and seas. Craig Lockard shows how for several millennia Southeast Asians, living at the crossroads of Asia, enjoyed ever expanding connections to both China and India, and later developed maritime trading networks to the Middle East and Europe. He explores how the people of the region combined local and imported ideas to form unique cultures, reflected in such striking creations as Malay sailing craft, Javanese gamelan music, and batik cloth, classical Burmese and Cambodian architecture, and social structures in which women have often played unusually influential roles. Lockard describes colonization by Europeans and Americans between 1500 and 1914, tracing how the social, economic, and politicalframeworks inherited from the past, combined with active opposition to domination by foreign powers, enabled Southeast Asians to overcome many challenges and regain their independence after World War II. The book also relates how Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam are now among the fastest growing economies in the world and play a critical role in today's global marketplace.
Locating Southeast Asia : Geographies of Knowledge and Politics of Space - Thryft
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Henk Schulte Nordholt | Singapore University Press

Locating Southeast Asia : Geographies of Knowledge and Politics of Space

from $9.20

Goodreads rating: 4.5

from $9.20

Out of stock

Southeast Asia has never formed a unified political realm nor has it ever developed a cultural or civilizational unity. The present volume brings together observations about "Southeast Asia" drawn from a number of regional and disciplinary perspectives. The authors look at the region from the standpoint of Thailand and the Philippines, Singapore and Hong Kong, Japan and the Asian mainland, the South China Sea and the seacoasts of the region. They also consider the significance of borders and of a monetary network, of transnational flows of people, goods and information, and of knowledge in shaping Southeast Asia both for its residents and in the eyes of a wider world.
Chen Village - The Recent History Of A Peasant Community In Mao's China - Thryft
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et al Chan, Anita | University Of California Press

Chen Village - The Recent History Of A Peasant Community In Mao's China

from $3.88

Goodreads rating: 3.63

from $3.88

Out of stock

Recommendation: If you're interested in learning about the daily realities of peasants' lives as they navigated through the tumultuous changes in China under Mao's regime, Chen Village is a must-read. The book provides an authentic account of how peasants endured and flourished despite the obstacles placed before them, offering a unique insight into China's modern history.
Asia in the Making of Europe: The Century of Discovery v.1 - Thryft
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Donald F. Lach | University Of Chicago Press

Asia in the Making of Europe: The Century of Discovery v.1

from $21.89

Goodreads rating: 3.67

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Out of stock

"Asia in the Making of Europe" is a must-read for history enthusiasts, scholars and anyone interested in the cultural exchange between Asia and Europe. The book provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the profound influence of Asian societies on Western culture during the sixteenth century. The author has meticulously sifted through virtually every European reference to Asia published in that century, providing a detailed survey of Asian life and society and its reflection in European literature and art. This monumental achievement provides a balanced perspective of world history while offering new insights into the complex dynamics of cultural exchange.
Vietnam : Rising Dragon - Thryft
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Bill Hayton | Yale University Press

Vietnam : Rising Dragon

from $14.24

Goodreads rating: 3.86

from $14.24

Out of stock

"Vietnam: Rising Dragon" is a captivating and enlightening read that sheds light on the many complexities of Vietnam's development. The book examines the social, economic, political, cultural, and historical factors influencing the country. Hayton's personal accounts offer an immersive experience for readers looking to learn more about Vietnam's urban and street life, cultural heritage, and their uniquely structured government. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in exploring a detailed account of Vietnam's emergence as a rising Asian power.
A History of Japan to 1334 - Thryft
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George Bailey Sansom | Stanford University Press

A History of Japan to 1334

from $11.99

Goodreads rating: 4.09

from $11.99

Out of stock

This is a straightforward narrative of the development of Japanese civilization to 1334 by the author of A Short Cultural History . While complete in itself, it is also the first volume of a three-volume work which will be the first large-scale, comprehensive history of Japan. Taken as a whole, the projected history represents the culmination of the life work of perhaps the most distinguished historian now writing on Japan. Unlike the renowned Short Cultural History , it is concerned mainly with political and social phenomena and only incidentally touches on religion, literature, and the arts. The treatment is primarily descriptive and factual, but the author offers some pragmatic interpretations and suggests comparisons with the history of other peoples. A History of Japan to 1334 describes the growth from tribal origins of an organized state on a Chinese model, gives a picture of the life of the Royal Court, and examines the conflict between a polished urban nobility and a warlike rural gentry. It traces the evolution of an efficient system of feudal government which deprived the sovereign of all but his ritual functions and the prestige of his ancestry. The structure of Japanese feudal society is depicted in some detail and explained in terms of its internal stresses and its behavior in peace and war, especially during the period of the Mongol attacks in the last decades of the thirteenth century. The volume ends with the collapse of the feudal government at Kamakura under the attack of ambitious rivals.
The Dictator's Dilemma : The Chinese Communist Party's Strategy for Survival - Thryft
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Bruce Dickson | Oxford University Press

The Dictator's Dilemma : The Chinese Communist Party's Strategy for Survival

from $11.13

Goodreads rating: 3.83

from $11.13

Out of stock

The Dictator's Dilemma explains the factors that have contributed to the continued success of the Chinese Communist Party's regime. Through public opinion surveys, interviews, and published materials, the author highlights how the CCP has managed to be democratic in the eyes of its people, while still restricting political competition and accountability to the electorate. The book is recommended for anyone interested in understanding contemporary China's politics and the factors behind its increasing importance in world politics.
Gathering Medicines: Nation and Knowledge in China’s Mountain South - Thryft
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Lili Lai, Judith Farquhar  | University Of Chicago Press

Gathering Medicines: Nation and Knowledge in China’s Mountain South

from $17.11

Goodreads rating: 3.33

from $17.11

Out of stock

In the early 2000s, the central government of China encouraged all of the nation’s registered minorities to “salvage, sort, synthesize, and elevate” folk medical knowledges in an effort to create local health care systems comparable to the nationally supported institutions of traditional Chinese medicine. Gathering Medicines bears witness to this remarkable moment of knowledge development while sympathetically introducing the myriad therapeutic traditions of southern China.Over a period of six years, Judith Farquhar and Lili Lai worked with seven minority nationality groups in China’s southern mountains, observing how medicines were gathered and local healing systems codified. Gathering Medicines shares their intimate view of how people understand ethnicity, locality, the body, and nature. This ethnography of knowledge diversities in multiethnic China is a testament to the rural wisdom of mountain healers, one that theorizes, from the ground up, the dynamic encounters between formal statist knowledge and the popular authority of the wild.
Singapore : An Atlas of Perpetual Territorial Transformation - Thryft
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Rodolphe De Koninck, Julie Drolet, Marc Girard  | National University Of Singapore Press

Singapore : An Atlas of Perpetual Territorial Transformation

from $3.09

Goodreads rating: 3.5

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Since 1965, when it became a fully independent city-state, Singapore has been an effervescent laboratory of economic, social and environmental transformation and innovation. The government of the small island republlc, which currently covers about 720 sq km, has thoroughly transformed and extended the lands under its control to serve the needs and ambitions of its citizens. The systematic overhaul of the Singaporean environment reflects a deliberate policy of social transformation, a revolution controlled and monitored from above.While Singapore's achievements in the realm of economic and social development have been carefully observed, little has been said about the close connections between these accomplishments and territorial management. Based on an extended series of diachronic maps, this book illustrates the nature and depth of the territorial changes that have occurred since the early 1960s. The commentary that accompanies the maps shows how Singapore has used this ongoing territorial transformation to support its position in a globalized economy, and also as a tool of social and political management.
The East Asian Region : Confucian Heritage and Its Modern Adaptation - Thryft
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Gilbert Rozman | Princeton University Press

The East Asian Region : Confucian Heritage and Its Modern Adaptation

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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This book provides insight into the history and transformation of Confucian values in East Asia over the past 2,000 years. It is recommended for those with an interest in East Asian history and culture, specifically Confucianism, and how it has adapted in modern times. The book offers a broad historical context and expert analysis for readers to deepen their understanding of this complex topic.
Floating on a Malayan Breeze : Travels in Malaysia and Singapore - Thryft
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Sudhir Vadaketh | Hong Kong University Press

Floating on a Malayan Breeze : Travels in Malaysia and Singapore

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Goodreads rating: 3.8

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What happens after a country splits apart? Forty-five years ago Singapore separated from Malaysia. Since then, the two countries have developed along their own paths. Malaysia has given preference to the majority Malay Muslims -- the bumiputera, or sons of the soil. Singapore, meanwhile, has tried to build a meritocracy -- ostensibly colour-blind, yet more encouraging perhaps to some Singaporeans than to others. How have these policies affected ordinary people? How do these two divergent nations now see each other and the world around them? Seeking answers to these questions, two Singaporeans set off to cycle around Peninsular Malaysia, armed with a tent, two pairs of clothes and a daily budget of three US dollars each. They spent 30 days on the road, cycling through every Malaysian state, and chatting with hundreds of Malaysians. Not satisfied, they then went on to interview many more people in Malaysia and Singapore. What they found are two countries that have developed economically but are still struggling to find their souls.
Locating Southeast Asia : Geographies of Knowledge and Politics of Space - Thryft
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Henk Schulte Nordholt | Singapore University Press

Locating Southeast Asia : Geographies of Knowledge and Politics of Space

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Goodreads rating: 4.5

from $9.20

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This book offers a multi-perspective understanding of Southeast Asia, highlighting the region's complex and diverse geographies, cultures, and politics. It provides valuable insights into the historical, cultural, and economic dimensions of Southeast Asia, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the region. The book's focus on different disciplinary perspectives and the significance of borders, transnational flows, and knowledge makes it unique and distinctive, contributing to a deeper understanding of this multifaceted region.
Ah-Ku and Karayuki-San: Prostitution in Singapore 1880-1940
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James Francis Warren | Singapore University Press

Ah-Ku and Karayuki-San: Prostitution in Singapore 1880-1940

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Goodreads rating: 4.6

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"Ah-Ku and Karayuki-San" offers you a gritty, unvarnished look at a darker chapter in Singapore's history, inviting both empathy and scholarly interest. It's a deep dive into the lives of marginalized figures who contributed significantly yet are often overlooked. It’s more than just an academic read; it's a powerful reminder of the resilience and complexity of human lives within the harsh realities of the past. If you have an interest in social history or want to understand the underbelly of colonial Singapore, this book provides a rich, nuanced narrative that’s as enlightening as it is harrowing.
Challenging Cosmopolitanism : Coercion, Mobility and Displacement in Islamic Asia - Thryft
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R. Michael Feener, Joshua Gedacht  | Edinburgh University Press

Challenging Cosmopolitanism : Coercion, Mobility and Displacement in Islamic Asia

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$28.17 from $19.72 Save up to 30%

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This book provides a critical perspective on Islamic cosmopolitanism, exploring its darker shades of power, violence, and economic control. Through new historical and ethnographic research, it contextualizes contemporary issues such as the global refugee crisis in relation to longer histories of Muslim mobility and coercion. A must-read for those interested in a nuanced understanding of Islamic cosmopolitanism.
A Concise History of Hong Kong - Thryft
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John Mark Carroll | Hong Kong University Press

A Concise History of Hong Kong

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Goodreads rating: 4.22

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If you're fascinated by pivotal moments in world history, "A Concise History of Hong Kong" will captivate you with its detailed account of the island's transformation. It offers a comprehensive window into how the blend of Chinese and British influences shaped modern Hong Kong—essential for those interested in the roots of present-day geopolitical landscapes.
Why Did They Kill? : Cambodia in the Shadow of Genocide - Thryft
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Alexander Laban Hinton, Robert Jay Lifton  | University Of California Press

Why Did They Kill? : Cambodia in the Shadow of Genocide

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Goodreads rating: 4.02

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Of all the horrors human beings perpetrate, genocide stands near the top of the list. Its toll is staggering: well over 100 million dead worldwide. Why Did They Kill? is one of the first anthropological attempts to analyze the origins of genocide. In it, Alexander Hinton focuses on the devastation that took place in Cambodia from April 1975 to January 1979 under the Khmer Rouge in order to explore why mass murder happens and what motivates perpetrators to kill. Basing his analysis on years of investigative work in Cambodia, Hinton finds parallels between the Khmer Rouge and the Nazi regimes. Policies in Cambodia resulted in the deaths of over 1.7 million of that country's 8 million inhabitants―almost a quarter of the population--who perished from starvation, overwork, illness, malnutrition, and execution. Hinton considers this violence in light of a number of dynamics, including the ways in which difference is manufactured, how identity and meaning are constructed, and how emotionally resonant forms of cultural knowledge are incorporated into genocidal ideologies.
The King Never Smiles: A Biography of Thailands Bhumibol Adulyadej [Paperback] Paul M. Handley - Thryft
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Paul M. Handley | Yale University Press

The King Never Smiles: A Biography of Thailands Bhumibol Adulyadej [Paperback] Paul M. Handley

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Goodreads rating: 3.83

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This book is an in-depth look into the life of Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej, providing a fascinating insight into the country's revered monarch. Handley's biography balances the king's impressive accomplishments with critical analysis of the country's political climate during his reign. If you're interested in history, political figures or Thailand's monarchy, this book is sure to keep you engaged.
Traditional Festivals in Thailand - Images of Asia - Thryft
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Ruth Gerson | Oxford University Press

Traditional Festivals in Thailand - Images of Asia

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Goodreads rating: 3.0

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If you're fascinated by the rich tapestry of Thailand's festivities, this dive into their vibrant festivals will enchant you. With Ruth Gerson's eye for detail, you'll get more than a tourist's glance—you'll understand the intertwining of religion and culture that makes these celebrations a pulsating heart of Thai life. It's a colorful window into a world of tradition and passion.
Taiwan - Thryft
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Denny Roy | Cornell University Press

Taiwan

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Goodreads rating: 3.79

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This book provides a detailed account of Taiwan's political history, exploring the multiple identities that have shaped the island's past and present. It offers a unique perspective on Taiwan's ongoing struggle for security, making it a must-read for anyone interested in East Asian politics and history.
Poised for Partnership : Deepening India-Japan Relations in the Asian Century - Thryft
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Anthony Yazaki, Rohan Mukherjee  | Oxford University Press

Poised for Partnership : Deepening India-Japan Relations in the Asian Century

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This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning about the India-Japan relationship and how to strengthen it further. The book covers a wide range of topics such as trade, investment, energy security, and global governance. The contributors offer insightful perspectives on their respective countries' interests, achievements, obstacles and propose concrete policies to ensure a lasting partnership. The book is a must-read for policymakers from both sides and anyone interested in the future of Asia.
Dictators Without Borders : Power and Money in Central Asia - Thryft
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John Heathershaw, Alexander A. Cooley  | Yale University Press

Dictators Without Borders : Power and Money in Central Asia

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Goodreads rating: 3.74

from $9.75

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A penetrating look into the unrecognized and unregulated links between autocratic regimes in Central Asia and centers of power and wealth throughout the WestWeak, corrupt, and politically unstable, the former Soviet republics of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are dismissed as isolated and irrelevant to the outside world. But are they? This hard-hitting book argues that Central Asia is in reality a globalization leader with extensive involvement in economics, politics and security dynamics beyond its borders. Yet Central Asia’s international activities are mostly hidden from view, with disturbing implications for world security. Based on years of research and involvement in the region, Alexander Cooley and John Heathershaw reveal how business networks, elite bank accounts, overseas courts, third-party brokers, and Western lawyers connect Central Asia’s supposedly isolated leaders with global power centers. The authors also uncover widespread Western participation in money laundering, bribery, foreign lobbying by autocratic governments, and the exploiting of legal loopholes within Central Asia. Riveting and important, this book exposes the global connections of a troubled region that must no longer be ignored.
The Pol Pot Regime : Race, Power and Genocide in Cambodia Under the Khmer Rouge, 1975-79 - Thryft
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Ben Kiernan | Yale University Press

The Pol Pot Regime : Race, Power and Genocide in Cambodia Under the Khmer Rouge, 1975-79

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Goodreads rating: 3.61

from $11.01

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Recommendation: This book provides a comprehensive and well-researched account of the Khmer Rouge revolution and the genocide that followed. It offers insights into the ideological motivations behind the Khmer Rouge's rise to power and the horrific consequences of their policies. This book would be a good read for anyone interested in understanding the history of Cambodia or the nature of totalitarian regimes.