This is an auction for THE WATER KINGDOM: A SECRET HISTORY OF CHINA by Philip Ball.

“A rewarding read. . . . At its most fascinating when describing how in China the laws of nature seem to have embedded in them a moral precept. . . . Ball puts water beautifully back at the heart of China’s story.”

• The Economist

“In his excellent, smartly written new book, The Water Kingdom, Ball identifies water as ‘one of the most constant, significant and illuminating themes’ in China’s history and culture. . . . Along the way, the book punctures myths and draws illuminating connections.”

• Financial Times (UK)

“Ball’s journey along the history, politics and culture of China’s waterways encompasses many heroes of Chinese hydrology, men who grappled with elemental forces and imperial censure and sometimes came out on top. . . . Ball argues that China’s future, like the past, can be read in the fate of its water.”

• The Guardian (UK)

“What a splendid idea: to write a history of China through its relationship with water. Far-fetched, you might think: not in the least, as you will find immediately when you start to read this fascinating book. You will never think of China in quite the same way again.”

• Martin Jacques, author of 'When China Rules the World'

“The language of water has been spoken in China since the earliest times. This remarkable book explains why, and is one of the very few that will be respected both in the West and in China.”

• Xinran, author of 'The Good Women of China'

Very favourable reviews on Amazon.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Philip Ball worked for over twenty years as an editor for 'Nature'.

Large format (trade) paperback 2016.

316 pages.

This is a proof * (review) copy in very good condition.

• i.e. no photos or index but otherwise complete.

The cost of shipping is $4.95.

There is of course no charge for shipping if you collect this book from my shop in Palmerston North following the auction.

Payment within seven days, please.