China Books

In his book "Investing in China", William Gamble has provided a thorough, thought-provoking and highly readable study of the subtle and not-so-subtle nuances of the Chinese legal and financial infrastructure and apparatus. This is a "how the Chinese system really works" (or doesn't work) guidebook that should be read by anyone contemplating an investment or business dealings in China. Gamble covers the spectrum of contracts, bankruptcy, real estate, securities, judges and lawyers in a work that is full of informative, interesting and intriguing information and anecdotes. Even if I wasn't interested in China trade, I would have enjoyed this book.

Mark Ellison, President
Seven Continents Media LLC

I first became aware of China specialist William Gamble when I saw his comments earlier this fall in USA Today (of all places). Funny and frank, he's the rare investing expert who's made me laugh. So I picked up his highly readable book which also pulls no punches in precisely outlining and analyzing Chinese legal and economic structures. In explaining the Chinese market's myriad weak links, Gamble is direct, down-to-earth, systematic, involving, understandable, and persuasive. In this valuable, actionable text he effectively makes his case that these legal risks are real and relevant to international investors. When the egg breaks it will be messy. Having enjoyed and learned from it, I recommend this book without reservations.

I wouldn't call it an "Investment" book in the usual sense, however it gave me new and valuable insights into the legal aspects of doing business, or investing in Mainland China.

There is much talk these days, about the coming China boom, but until now, no one seems to be discussing the additional risks of doing business in a region where contracts are often declared void on a politician's whim.

My own international dealings have been mostly in Western Europe, where the legal systems function in a way similiar to our own in the US. Mr Gamble makes clear that things work very differently in China, and that you ignore these differences at your peril.

I should add that "Investing in China" is an excellent refresher course on business law, and it's importance to the international investor. His writing is clear, and to the point, without being patronizing.

Not a heavy tome written for the legal professional, but rather a good read, written by a legal professional, for the rest of us.
Highly reccomended! Well worth your time.

I read this book with tears. Sometimes, the emotional impact was so much that I had to stop reading and pull myself out of it. James Hudson Taylor was one of the first missionaries who were willing to identify themselves with Chinese people, just as Jesus identify Himself with human. The author described honestly about Mr. Taylor's stregths and weaknesses, successes and mistakes, and his spiritual journey with God. A worth to ready biography.

An exciting biography of how God can work in the life of a committed person. It will certainly redefine the word sacrifice for you.

I thank God for having allowed me to read this book and strongly urge you to read it as well! Many times I remember tears gently flowing out of my eyes as I could see God through this wonderful testimony which exhorted me, encouraged me, and led me. I strongly believe that it was God's seal of approval upon this man's life that made such a book be printed. I am praying to translate this book into Spanish as I hope many more will also have the opportunity of reading such LIFE of the Gospel.

In Christ, J. Hernandez mussio2@hotmail.com

Jiaogulan, China's Immortality Herb, is full of information about this new herb (new in the West anyway). I picked it up because I have high blood pressure, and this herb is known to normalize blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and help with general heart health. The evidence of the herb's efficacy in treating many health problems is impressive! And it's all backed up with scientific studies. I have to admit, I ended up buying the herb and using it, and it has helped me lower my blood pressure without taking any heavy drugs. What a relief! Read this book if you are at all interested in improving your heart health!

In China and Japan, jiaogulan is also prescribed by herbalists for the treatment of obesity. Having become somewhat overweight myself, I was delighted to find that over a period of one year, and with the help of a lot of fruit and vegetables and a lot of walking, I was able to lose 18 kilograms.

I received this book as a gift and began drinking Jiaogulan Tea at about the same time I started reading the book. My personal results has been positive from both items. I was amazed at how the topic was so thoroughly researched in so many countries. I have to say that this book really brought attention to the idea that there may be lots of remedies for healing from the Eastern world that may never make it into Western countries. If one herb has been so completely researched in China, Japan, and the USA, it seems like it should be made available to people in all countries. Thank you M. Blumert and Dr. J. Liu for a great and meticulous job on the assembly of such important research results available about Jiaogulan.

The courage of this beautiful lady to even publish such a book is fantastic. Her portrayal of that very difficult time in Chinese history without rancor, but with great forgiveness and love, is very encouraging for Christians everywhere. I only wish I could speak to her personally.

Ms. Duan's life and book are a testimony to the incredible uphevals that have occured in China during this century. From the perspective of a Chinese Christian, Ms. Duan has written a book that integrates her culture and her faith. This book captures the life of a unique woman who has lived a humble life and provides the reader with a window into Chinese life. Definitely a book both to inspire and inform.

This book is most inspiring to those of us who live in a world where we are free to believe and worship as we wish. Julia Duan endured hardships most cannot understand by exhibiting a strong faith through recalling hymns and scripture memorized years in the past. She can inspire us all.

I picked up this book on the advice of a friend who knew I was interested in the plight of US intel officers John Downey and Richard Fecteau, and indeed Philip Smith provides new (to me) details and insights into the captivity they shared. But in its own right, Smith's story of his incarceration as a prisoner in China should be a classic, in the sense that it will endure. In a real sense, this is the book that neither Downey nor Fecteau would write, and it honors all of them for their perservance in the face of evil. Given that the threat remains, this should be on the reading list of all military branches and some other government agencies I know. Highly recommended.

Phil's story was personal for me: My dad is Lt Col Dayle Carlson (ret) who, with Harvey Quackenbush, went out to find Phil Smith. What an honor to have such bravery as a part of my history. It was a gripping story; how many of us can even imagine the tenaciousness required to survive solitary confinement for so many years. Thank you, gentlemen, for your service to our country. You make me proud to be an American.

It was an honor to have been a beneficairy of the democracy this man fought for. His perseverance in times we could only imagine through such excellent writing is inspiration for us all. To try to feel one fraction of his emotion is our challenge we probably could not accomplish. His spirit and disipline are unparelleld.

Colonel Smith's story begins with an unbelievable turn of events that if they weren't true, you would think they were scripted fiction. If anything could go wrong on his fateful day it did. As he takes you through the result of those misfortunes, his attention to detail puts you looking over his shoulder and wanting to lean in to help him. The feelings, pride and emotions he exhibited were enough to keep the pages turning and make you want to read faster and faster. As the events of his debacle unfold you'll find yourself wishing this wasn't history-that it was happening now and you could do something about it early on before it became his nightmare. The writing style is complete and solid without becoming too technical. It has interesting insight into the pilot and soldiers roles and duty without losing sight that it is a story of courage, faith, family and most of all hope. This is the perfect story to make us all take a step back to help us forget the little things that may be a nuisance and appreciate the big things that are taken away from some. It will make you look at all who protected us and our freedoms gratefully.

An astonishingly beautiful photographic essay of the life of one of Tibet's greatest lamas of this century. Khyentse Rinpoche was a teacher of the present Dalai Lama and of many other high lamas whose sparkling wisdom and warm compassion shine through even in photos. The author Matthieu Ricard is an ordained monk in the Tibetan tradition. He recently accompanied Khyentse Rinpoche on a trip to Tibet. The photographs in this book document the trip in a most vivid portrayal of a living Tibetan culture. It is amazing to see how glorious was the greeting given to this renowned lama upon his return to Tibet. We are treated to a pictorial feast of rites, costumes and throngs of devoted welcomers. The accompanying text tells not only the story of this wonderful trip but also of the life and teachings of Khyentse Rinpoche, the profound influence of which can be felt just by browsing the pages.

I admit that much of the time since I've owned this book, when I go thru it, it is just to look at the photographs. Ricard has captured "Shangri-la": I don't know of any more evocative photographic collection. The faces, the costumes, the landscapes: all the mystic of Tibet and its Buddhism. A good reason to want to visit Tibet.

If you can disengage yourself from the photographs (which I find hard to do) then there are many teachings from Khyentse Rinphoche that point to the benefits of naked awareness.

The combination of amazing photos and amazing teaching may be just what we need to begin to eschew distractions and meet reality head-on. It soon overwhelms me each time I try that, but, as I get older, I wonder how often I can put off the challenge that teachers like Khyense Rinpoche present. Is it trickery or the deepest insight?

Whether you are Buddhist or not, this book will be a rare gem. Here are some reasons I would own this book :

1) Rare and beautiful pictures on the most sacred place in the world

2) Learn something about the mysterious Tibetan Buddhism

3) Words of Wisdom (I mean real Wisdom, in condensed form) throughout the pages would awake you and set you contemplating

This is a great memoir on one of the greatest spiritual teacher that takes the reader on the journey of history and geography, culture and tradition, religion and philosophy. With or without realising it, you are learning the most important lesson in life, with enjoyment.

If there was a book that kept you awake till 3.00am in the morning (of course it depends on what time you started reading), this is it!

The first chapter is a bit tedious, but after that you can't put the book down. It is page turning and can be read in one sitting. You simply do not want to stop reading it.

I recommend it to everyone.

Letta in China book is a MUST read for EVERY Christian!!! No matter whatever situation you are in - this book will never fail to minister to whoever read it!!! I was very, very encouraged when I first read it and it has definitely changed my life tremendously!!!
I am going to reread this book again because it is so uplifting and encouraging and it has NEVER fail to minister to its readers!!
IT IS A MUST HAVE BOOK FOR EVERYONE!!! It is a small investment with HUGE returns!!! You will be GREATLY BLESS!!

What a wonderful book of God's faithfulness.This book change my life!
Letta testimonies of God's greatness and faithfulness will change your life.This book is for every christians that want to experience God's miracles in their life.Every missionaries must read this book.

The account of John Birch's life is a great testimony of God's power today and how God can use individuals to accomplish His will. John Birch was a Baptist from Georgia and he was killed by Communists in China where he worked for the US Army and also started missionary work. John Birch is a great role model for a Christian, and for all those who desire integrity, character, strength and honor in a man's life. In fact, this book has led me to join a Baptist church in Tennessee since John Birch was strong for the Lord and he was a good Baptist. It is so revealing and amazing to read the letters he wrote shortly before his sacrificial death. This book is heartily recommended. The only flaw about the book is that the author seems not to be a faithful Christian because he expresses belief in evolution and does not focus on John Birch's life of faith, and his relationship to the Lord's church. But the words and actions of the missionary John Birch speak louder than the author's opinions and views.

In April, 1942, the Rev. Birch, Baptist missionary, was eating supper somewhere in China, and was approached to aid the crews of the Doolittle Raiders to safety from behind enemy lines. He volunteered for military service as a chaplain at that time. He was approached by Gen. Claire Chennault of the American Volunteer Group (Flying Tigers) who had other ideas. Rev. Birch was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant on July 4, 1942 and served the remainder of the war as an intelligence officer, but preached whenever he could. Ten days after the cessation of hostilities, August, 1945, by then a Captain, John Birch was brutally murdered by Chinese Communists of Mao Tse Tung's 9th Route Army.

The account of John Birch's life is a great testimony of God's power today and how God can use individuals to accomplish His will. John Birch was a Baptist from Georgia and he was killed by Communists in China where he worked for the US Army and also started missionary work. John Birch is a great role model for a Christian, and for all those who desire integrity, character, strength and honor in a man's life. In fact, this book has led me to join a Baptist church in Tennessee since John Birch was strong for the Lord and he was a good Baptist. It is so revealing and amazing to read the letters he wrote shortly before his sacrificial death. This book is heartily recommended. The only flaw about the book is that the author seems not to be a faithful Christian because he expresses belief in evolution and does not focus on John Birch's life of faith, and his relationship to the Lord's church. But the words and actions of the missionary John Birch speak louder than the author's opinions and views.

Lion of Siddhas is a joyful and exciting text filled with the miraculous activities of enlightened beings. More importantly, David Molk's work is a clear pipeline to the words of the realized meditation master, Padampa Sangye. This will be no surprise for those familiar with David's translation efforts for some of the great living masters of Tibetan Buddhism.

Lion of Siddhas may rival the translations of the Songs of Milarepa in its importance and profundity. As one of the great Mahasiddhas of early Tibet, Padampa Sangye has been largely overlooked in the West despite being celebrated in the Songs of Milarepa as an equal and a fully realized being, and his profound influence on the First Panchen Lama.

Westerners may have a hard time accepting the claim that in the same lifetime Padampa Sangye was also Bodhidharma who brought Zen to China, as well as Kamalashila who firmly planted the gradual method of enlightenment in Tibet. Yet, within the writing one clearly encounters the gradual stages of Indo-Tibetan meditation thoroughly mixed with the iconoclasm and immediacy of Zen and Mahamudra. Finally, all is combined into one package with the precision of Tantric thought and practice. Based on the text, the extraordinary claim that one being is actually all three of these pivotal personalities seems somehow possible. Whether one accepts this and other miraculous claims, Padampa Sangye clearly represents a stunning synthesis of Buddhist thought and practice that is functional, non-sectarian and refreshingly non-monastic.

David Molk's lifetime of experience as a translator and Buddhist practitioner is evident in the translation, which portrays his deep personal acquaintance with the teachings.

This book is an important addition to any library, providing insight into extraordinary teachings. I offer a heartfelt thank you to Lama Tsering Wangdu Rinpoche for bringing these teachings to the West. I hope this is of value.

A remarkable study of one of Tibetan Buddhism's greatest teachers

Lama Tsering Wangdu Rinpoche and David Molk have made a ground-breaking contribution to the West's comprehension of Tibetan Buddhism in their 337-page work "Lion of Siddhas". The life and teachings of the great Buddhist siddha (accomplished meditator) Padampa Sangye has been vividly presented in this profound yet readable book.

A millennium ago, the Indian yogi Padampa Sangye visited Tibet, finally settling near Mount Everest and establishing a Dharma village of committed lay Tibetan male and female practitioners. In this seemingly informal setting, Padampa Sangye dispensed both personal advice and advanced meditation teachings. Many of the question-and-answer sessions were recorded by his disciple Bodhisattva Kunga, and are beautifully rendered here, for the first time in English, in their full vibrancy and intimacy. Of particular note is the way in which these teachings reach out to the present, addressed as they are to householders, merchants, wives and husbands, as well as to solitary meditators.

"Lion of Siddhas" also contains the extensive spiritual biography (namthar) of Padampa Sangye by Chokyi Senge, also for the first time in English. It begins with his actions in previous lives; continues by describing his life and enlightened activity as the extraordinary teacher we know as Padampa Sengye; and concludes with the life-stories of those students (of both genders) who continued his life's work after his death.

Finally, the book concludes with a set of five appendices devoted to practice instructions. These cover topics from longevity practice to the purification of one's speech actions (transmutation of speech into mantra).

Padampa Sangye instituted a new spiritual lineage in Tibet, the Shijay or Pacifier tradition, which has been greatly influential in all the schools of Tibetan Buddhism. His most famous student, the female siddha Machig Labdron, popularized the Chod or cutting practice that survives as an active practice in those schools. Now, a thousand years later, Lama Tsering Wangdu Rinpoche is actively reinstituting the Shijay tradition as a whole. "Lion of Siddhas" offers us a vibrant newly recovered perspective on both Tibetan Buddhism and the practice of Chod. Any serious student of both should study this extraordinary book.

The only thing that has been omitted, to my mind, is an index. The book is well organized into chapters and subchapters, so fortunately the overall navigation of the material is straightforward. Nonetheless, I hope that the publishers ensure that an index is included in future editions so that we readers can get maximum benefit out of its contents.

David Molk is one of the few people who could translate this powerful book. He can speak from the best source of all, direct experience. The path of Shinje (Pacification of Suffering) is an excellent view into the world of the Mahasiddha, as opposed to the lineage books which usually promote a particular style of training in the Dharma.
This is a book to read, ponder and above all, put into practice. If you ever felt that maybe "something was missing" from the books on Tibetan Buddhism, then read this one.
Possibly the most powerful method of training there is available to us today.

Lion of Siddhas: The Life and Teachings of Padampa Sangye collects two venerable texts in one volume, both skillfully translated into English for the first time by expert and practicing Buddhist David Molk with Lama Tsering Wangdu Rinpoche. The first text of Lion of Siddhas is a biography of East Indian Mahasiddha Padampa Sangye, well known as a lineage guru to all schools of Tibetan Buddhism. He brought the lineage of Chod to Tibet, spread the Buddha's teachings in China, and the Tibetan tradition names him to be the Bodhidharma. His teaching methods could be extreme; he was known to tell his disciples (many of whom were women) to ignore social conventions, eschew social contacts, and transcend their cultural conditioning. The second text within Lion of Siddhas compiles Padampa Sangye's verbal and nonverbal teachings, known as "Mahamudra in Symbols", as recorded by his primary Tibetan disciple nearly one thousand years in the past. An invaluable reference for Buddhist studies shelves and reference collections, highly recommended.

I am so glad to find these books again. I used to check them out at our local library and they looked pretty old back then (I am almost 37!). I cannot wait to share them with my little girl, I hope she enjoys them as much as I did.

The Little Pear stories are fabulous. My four year old daughter loves them and we read them over and over. They are perfect for this age and older.

These little pear stories are just good clean fun. Not many books are written like this one these days.

Little Pear is a young chineese boy. In this chapter book he has many adventures. In these adventures he learns newthings such as ice fishing and baby sitting.