Review: A New Illustrated History of Taiwan

A New Illustrated History of Taiwan by Wan-yao Chou
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is probably the definitive history of Taiwan to read (in English) for those who are interested in the subject. It is actually quite a quick read, and the illustrations are excellent.

The complicated history of how Taiwan feels vis-a-vis Japan, China, the ROC, and Taiwan itself is outlined very clearly, as well as how its history relates to the region, including Okinawa and Korea. I also appreciated that the author touched upon issues such as the frivolity of the news in Taiwan, which one notices when living here, but is hardly ever addressed.

A couple of my notes:
- The name "Taiwan" comes from an indigenous word
- Japan was able to use Taiwan to have China recognize it (Japan) as ruler of Okinawa
- Suniuo, an Amis, went to Indonesia as a soldier for Japan, and then hid in the forests of Indonesia for 30 years following the defeat of Japan in WWII.

A couple issues:
Why Wade-giles?? I understand it might have made sense when it was first written, in the 90s, but now they include a Wade-giles - Pinyin glossary at the end, which seems would be more trouble than just changing everything to Pinyin.

Would be interesting to have an update for the past 20 years or so, especially the whole China-Taiwan relationship and lack of recognition on an international stage, and maybe another look at the 90s from more of a historical perspective. An update would make me revise this to 5 stars.

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