On China
On China
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2011
Book Brief
624
Book • Nonfiction
China • 20th Century
2011
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
On China by Henry Kissinger blends history, personal narrative, and political analysis to offer a historical overview of Chinese diplomacy, focusing on Kissinger’s role in re-establishing Sino-American relations under President Nixon. The book covers China's strategic historical principles, interactions during colonial times, and key diplomatic figures like Mao, Zhou Enlai, and Deng Xiaoping, advocating for US leaders to understand Chinese politics and history. The book discusses the Tiananmen Square student demonstrations and their violent suppression.
Informative
Contemplative
Mysterious
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
11,221 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Reviews of Henry Kissinger's On China highlight its thorough historical analysis and insight into China's foreign policy. Praised for its compelling narrative and the author's firsthand experience, some critics find it overly sympathetic to Chinese leaders and dense in parts. Overall, it's valued for its depth but may challenge casual readers.
Who Should Read On China?
Readers who would enjoy On China by Henry Kissinger typically have a keen interest in geopolitics, diplomatic history, and international relations. Comparable to fans of The Tragedy of Great Power Politics by John Mearsheimer or Diplomacy by Kissinger himself, these readers appreciate in-depth analyses of historical events and strategic policymaking.
11,221 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
624
Book • Nonfiction
China • 20th Century
2011
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!