Asia Books

When I first read about this book in the papers I picked it up for my mom but once I started reading it I couldn't put it down myself! Great stories written from the heart and with a lot of heart plus great pix from around the South East Asian region. I loved the introductory story about the author's grandmother as I felt she was talking about my own grandma, who was a great unifier of the family when she was alive and a great cook as well. A definite must on this year's Christmas list for all my female friends. Good job!

The book is a fusion of both cookery and history. In it, there is a beautiful pictorial glimpse of the women in Asia. I can vividly see and start to understand how their lives are affected by differing cultures, lifestyles and experiences. The reading experience is unique because we are also given a diverse range of food recipes to literaly taste the different cultures. Well done!

This is the kind of feminism we have been looking for! Our bra burining sisters of the sixties had their hearts in theright place but the stories of some of these incredible women in this book give the term amazing grace a whole new meaning for me. wonderful book.

One, of not the only book, I have ever read about Conscientious Objectors in the military. Each of the stories told in the book bring to life the Viet Nam war itself, but the war in the minds of the men themselves. It is a different kind of bravery that is revealed here.

I was in Shreveport, Louisiana, in the 1980's doing some painful rehabilitation work. My psyche was only a shadow of what it once was or what it became later with a renewal of my faith, insight, and energy. I was browsing through the library and saw an ad in the back of "Mother Jones" anout this book in the making. I contacted the author and was interviewed via telephone for a couple of hours. It was at a pay phone and I literally screamed my way through the interview. It was a return to the roots of my dissent. And a healing.

The author has captured a fragment of the in-service dissent during the Vietnam War. When I started my dissent action, I was alone, and endured lonliness. This book has cemented us together in a deepest solidarity. Now I am available for support to others in this dilemma, should the need arise. Heaven forbid. What a nightmare. What a journey. What hope!

"To hope til hope creates from its own wreck the thing it contemplates."

Shelley (peace sisters and brothers)

This book is very real, it emits an aura of what it's really like to fight in a war. Great for all people interseted in the military.

Tim Huxley book, Defending the Lion City is a well written and detailed analysis of the Singaporean Armed Forces. Huxley begins by proving the reader with the history of the SAF, following Singapore independence to its break from Malaysia. Huxley then examine all three branches in fairly great depth as well as Singapore's likely strategic environment. All in all, a excellent book and a must for anyone interested in the Singaporean Armed Forces.

I found this book to be very informative. It gave a great history of the Singapore military and is very relevant to today's situation. Good, solid introduction to the Singapore Armed Forces. I recommend it.

The book succintly compiles a plethora of information into a easily understood and accessible trove for the average readers who are keen on the military capabilities of the SAF.

While it seems that it has revealed much of the hitherto obscure information of the SAF, it must be noted that this is probably just the tip of the iceberg of the true might of the SAF.

I enjoyed the book thoroughly and have been constantly referring back to it for more information after the first read.

Of all the battles that took place in the last half of the twentieth century, the French defeat at Dien Bien Phu was probably the most significant. Their defeat at the hands of the communist Viet Minh forever destroyed French military power in Southeast Asia and led to the involvement of the United States in the region. Unfortunately for Vietnam, America and the rest of the world, it took three more decades before the true lesson of Dien Bien Phu was learned. In the long run, the Vietnamese led by Ho Chi Minh were going to control all of Vietnam. Foreign military intervention could delay that fact, but never, ever make it impossible.
This book is a history of the circumstances that led to the battle, the incredible mistakes made by the French and the actions of General Giap as he planned and executed his battle plan. At first, the French had a good idea; their plan was to draw the Viet Minh out into a pitched battle between the two armies. On the surface, it was a good strategy. At the time, the French forces had superior firepower and total control of the air. However, the French military leadership completely underestimated the Viet Minh resources and their resolve to win. These were the same mistakes that the American leaders made during their involvement in Vietnam. The French military leadership also overestimated their capability and made a bad choice regarding the location of the battle. Finally, the fortress was sold as impregnable and the battle was labeled as decisive by the French before it ever took place. Therefore, they turned their defeat into one that would be decisive, motivating the Viet Minh to fight that much harder to achieve it.
For while the French defeat in Indochina was inevitable, their loss at Dien Bien Phu was not. As Stone points out, the Viet Minh suffered considerable losses and there were times when it was possible that the French forces could have staved off the defeat. Had they had more M-24 tanks and better logistical support, the French forces could have survived much longer. While the Viet Minh forces would have continued to fight, at times their losses were so great that some units temporarily lost their fighting capability.
One of the best aspects of this book is the explanation of how the Indochina war was presented back in France. The war was so unpopular that it directly led to legislation forbidding conscripts from fighting there and it played a part in the later fall of the French government. Stone also is very meticulous in chronicling the facts regarding the forces arrayed on both sides, including both the strengths and weaknesses. In the end, France could not hold the line in Southeast Asia and it is sad to note that many of the mistakes made by the French were later repeated to a greater extent by the Americans. Which should not be surprising, as both were operating based on the same set of false initial assumptions, namely that their presence could make a difference.

This is the first book I have read on this famous battle. The book covers the history of the region prior to the battle and the related events afterwards. Anyone who wants to read about how a battle should not be fought should read this book. The also covers how elite troops of the French army were poorly lead but put up an very couragous defense. I would recommend anyone who is interested in the French Foriegn Legion should read this book.

The latest title in Brassey's outstanding "Battles in Focus" series, Dein Bien Phu 1954 focuses upon one of the most significant post-World War II defeats that the French military experienced. An epic conflict between the French and the nationalist forces of the Viet Minh, the conflict began in November 1953 and ended in May 1954 with the collapse and capture of the last garrison outpost held by French forces, setting the stage for their expulsion and directly paving the way for the Americas who intervene in the Vietnamese civil war on the side of the South Vietnamese government. Definitively informed and informative, Dein Bien Phu 1954 is a seminal addition the growing library of 20th Century Military History in general, and the Vietnam conflict in particular.

It can be argued that, as a nation, America rushed to forget about the experience in Vietnam. As a result, many heroic acts often went unsung. John Burnam's moving book takes the reader back to a difficult time in our history to share the unique stories of a special group of heroes-- the Vietnam dog handlers and their canine partners. Burnam's conversational accounts of incredible war time situations is both eye-opening and hair-raising. Sadly, the reader also learns the chilling truth about how our government and military callously forgot the dogs of Vietnam. Their handlers, however, never forgot. Soldiers like Ron Aiello(US Marine Corps Scout-dog handler) never forgot how the dogs often saved soldier's lives. (You can read how Aiello's own life was saved by his female German shepherd partner, Smokey, on page 281.) In 2000 Aiello founded the U.S. War Dogs Association and spear-headed the drive to honor the Vietnam war dogs and their handlers with a bronze sculpture that now stands in Holmdel, New Jersey. Readers may also be surprised to learn that military dogs continue to protect and save lives today in Afghganistan and Iraq. The chapter on the rescued Iraqi dog recruited by Special Forces Sergeant First Class Russell Joyce for sentry duty ("Fluffy") is uplifting and inspiring.

Burnam's book is a great read. His telling of his relationship with his partner "Clipper" is poignant and ultimately heart-wrenching. The personal accounts and military details also make it an interesting historical record. But perhaps more than anything, it is a moving tribute to some very special heroes who's bravery and good deeds should never be forgotten.(And don't forget to read with a box of tissue--you'll need it!)

I was thoroughly enthrawled and entertained while reading this well-told story. It is precise, matter-of-fact and compelling. I highly recommend this book to anyone who owns a dog, loves animals, or wants to see what it was like to be an infantryman during a very trying and difficult war. Mr. Burnam tells it like it was, and shows what it means and what it takes to be a dog-handler during the Vietnam war. Good book.

War dogs have been used in military actions for many years. This is the story of author John C. Burnam's experiences as a dog handler in Vietnam. These dogs saved countless lives as their keen senses of hearing and smell alerted their handler to danger long before the handler would have become aware of it. And, of course, many of the dogs also lost their lives in the line of duty. This is a very personal look at the special relationship between dog and handler and the brotherhood of all those who were dog handlers in a military action. Filled with pictures taken during the Vietnam action, it includes the sad story of the abandonment of thousands of dogs at the end of the war. For anyone who has an interest in the ways dogs have helped military actions, the bond between handlers and dogs, the courage and dedication of war dogs, or just the recent history of war dogs Dog Tags of Courage is a recommended read.

Particularly impressive is the author's approach at presenting the Chinese thought process in such a manner that Westerners can not only understand the Chinese psyche, but respect and learn from it as well. This book was perhaps one of the most enlightening books I have read in a while. There is a a concerted effort to show business protocol and potential avenues of entry, but more importantly this book addresses the fundamental social concepts that need to be FULLY understood before attempting to grow in China.

Of the vast number of books about China, this one is a very useful account of how successfully doing business in China. Western Managers at the forefront in China should read this book which brings together a lifetime of research and practice on China.

Doing business in China!
Relation, Relation And Relation....

If you are using your American or European style to work and even partner with China's firms, you must be failure in the end.

Relationship with the Government and officials are the major concerns when you stepping into the door of China.

Think Global and hire Local Chinese people is the only way to have the final success with your partner in China.

China means: " Always in the historical culture "
So don't think about China with your American Standard !

Try to learn with your local Chinese people (doer)

Anyway, China is opened now and also needed to face the ways for WTO ! Reckon, China can learn from their European and American business partners from today.

This book is actually several stories about the Dream-of-Jade Cat and the Emperor. There are beautiful illustrations and the stories good, this book is rated for ages 9 - 12 and I agree.

The stories are:
How Dream of Jade Looked at the Emperor
How the Dream-of-Jade Cured the Emperor
How the Dream-of-Jade Made the Emperor Laugh
How the Dream-of-Jade Chose a Gift
How Dream-of-Jade Wrote the Law

Come laugh with me and allow an Imperial Feline to draw back the veil of Time that obscures Imperishable Truths. You doubtless know Lloyd Alexander as a prolific writer & author of medieval fantasies. In "Dream-of-Jade" his wonder-filled stories tell us about ancient China and Emperor Kwan-Yu. "Jade" is the cat who stole his affections.

The author dedicated his book to "my dear cats who told me these tales." Fables can be enjoyed 'time and again' - - these were first published in CRICKET magazine in 1976. We learn how historical events were clarified by the wisdom of "Jade": how she cured the emperor, wrote the Law, and most importantly made the emperor laugh. Her beautiful green eyes & white fur is realistically portrayed through the artistry of D. Brent Burkett. He, as well as the cat, get in a few 'swipes' at pompous know-it-all bureaucrats. Some of the tongue-in-cheek humor may be lost on the youngest listeners but they will love the highly stylized speech with "important" words, and the rhythm of complicated 'titles' - such as this on page 36: "the Glittering Repository of Highly Valuable Objects."

If we listen attentively as any cat lover should, we will realize there are often lessons for adults to be found in children's picture books. Reviewer mcHAIKU suggests that you allow yourself to be hypnotized by "Dream-of-Jade."

Dream-of-Jade is a fabulous and fantastic story that emphasizes kindness, generosity, diplomacy, and common sense. The setting is beautiful, the characters are delightful, and nestled throughout the stories are bits of humor, pieces of irony, and the occasional new vocabulary word. Mr. Alexander's book is smart and charming, and as good a read for adults as it is for children. As an added bonus, the artwork, while more impressionistic than many children's books, adds to the flavor of the story quite well, providing a detailed enough view of events that one can see them while not detracting from the reader's eager imaginings.

Yaseem lari is one of my favorite authors because her topics and writing style have a personal effect on me. I am also a Lari but that has nothing to do with anything...
The reason i chose to read this book was because i was born in Karachi and i wanted to learn about the wonderful city that i was from. This book does an wonderful job in describing the climate and history of the largest city in Pakistan. If you are not interested in such a topic then i don't reccomend reading this book but if u want to get an idea of Karachi and the changes it went through its history then its a great book for you!

This is a must read for anyone interested in Karachi and its history. I highly reccomend this book.

Disclaimer: Yasmeen and Mihail Lari are related to my wife. Regardless, I am going to provide as objective a review as I can.

I throughly enjoyed what I have read in this book so far! The maps, the illustrations, the descriptions, make this book come alive in a way that makes it simply a joy to read. Particularly if you have lived in Karachi for any length of time.

I have often seen that the inhabitants of a city - any city - are often the least knowledgeable of the history of their locale. This is not very surprising, I suppose, because there is a tendency to assume that "I already know my home town"! I find this book (and other history books that relate to my country!) opens up new revelations and provides knowledge that I simply did not have about Karachi.

I throughly recommend this book to everybody, particularly if you have any acquaintance with the region or the city. The book covers details that are not found elsewhere.

Dubai is changing so fast that it is important to get the most current edition. Selling this edition that was published in 1999 for $89.00 is a ripoff. The book is only worth the money if you get the 2005 edition.

The best thing since sliced bread ! The Dubai Explorer has it all, from info on your visa or driving license to where to get the best margaritas in town. A very easy to use guide which comes in handy when you want to try out a new restaurant,the guide is being updated anually which ensures that you never mis out on the latest that is going on in Dubai, even for the long time residents The Dubai Explorer is a must.

Very informative and up-to-date guide - useful for visitors and expats alike. Split into 8 broad sections the guide starts with the usual general help - including cultural and practical information. Particularly liked the summary boxes and top tips - saves a lot of time ! The hotels listing may be disappointing for visitors (just a contact list) but the guide more than makes up for this by the great Eating Out/On the Town sections, with price guide and pretty accurate reviews of restaurants and the varied nightlife. The New Residents section is essential reading for expats or potential expats - great practical information. The 'Exploring', 'Pleasure and Leisure' and 'Sporting activities' sections contain all a reader needs to know about what to do in the Emirates - without this book a visitor could miss out on many of the delights offered in this part of the world. Since shopping is a major pastime in Dubai this section of the guide is an excellent timesaving guide to the malls and the huge range of goods to buy.

Extensive index and the simple, practical layout of the guide make it easy to use. The aerial maps at the back of the book are stunning ! Dubai is a rapidly developing place and a current guide is essential - this guide contains much more up-to-date information than many other guidebooks and is thoroughly recommended for expats and visitors alike !

In addition to offering great historical and cultural perspective for anyone interested in the "American War" - the Vietnam War - and previous history...this book is just funny.

It is an intelligent, witty, insightful book, and yet is somehow familiar...almost 'quaint' - with characters who are endearing, comfortable and delightful even to an American reader many decades later.

I was assigned this novel for a Vietnamese history class; I would not have even heard of it otherwise.

This novel is excellent. The writing style, translated from 1930's Vietnamese, is humourous, witty, and fast-paced. The luck, charisma, and quick thinking of Red-Haired Xuan is hilarious, and the plot is worthy of the best modern comedy movies (particularly British ones).

I have no clue how you would find out about this novel, but if you do, you should read it. It had me laughing out loud, and I am not a fan of historical or foreign novels. Considering that this novel is 70 years old and from a totally different language, it must be a masterpiece if to still be so good.

i haven't read a lot of vietnamese literature but among those i've read, i would rank dumb luck and tale of kieu at the very top. dumb luck is hilarious and absurdly modern for its time and place. i could definitely see this book translated into a quirky comedic film (i think the preface says the author may have been influenced by such french films and i can see that, if that's true). the main character, red-haired xuan, is delightful but not annoying. not a word is wasted here -- every character and line of dialogue is essential to the story. the book is a quick, refreshing read. however, in trying to give an objective comparison, i can tell you that my israeli boyfriend also loved it but my vietnamese high school brother merely thought it was funny but not hilarious. pick up this book if you want to read an excellent piece of vietnamese literature or want to spend a few hours rollicking with laughter (or more likely smirking and uttering a couple of "hah!"s every few minutes). this is a rare, obscure find. read it if you have the opportunity to do so.