The Split: Finding the Opportunities in China's Economy in the New World Order by Shaun ReinMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
As soon as one moves to China it's clear that most of the information about China available internationally is laughably wrong. Even from just across the straight in Taiwan I was amazed at how different things were on the mainland when I moved there in 2016. And since I left, this is the first book I’ve seen that gave what felt like a real update on the country.
All of this is to say this is a much needed book. You’d be hard-pressed to find a book in English (or any language) discussing China from the inside with such knowledge, as well as candor.
To be sure, there is much I disagree with in the book. I believe he gives Xi a pass for many things, first and foremost as regards Taiwan (Xi forever refuses to even listen to the idea of independence, which isn’t touched upon, as well as the trade bans and constant political/social/military pressure on Taiwan), the trade bans/sanctions with East Asia, and economic coercion in general.
The target is people in the business community, but it might be good for some people in the state department to read this as well. Some great insight.
4.5 stars
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