Liang Sicheng

4814 learners

Written by Liang Sicheng, the pioneer of modern Chinese architectural studies, *A History of Chinese Architecture* is the definitive exploration of China’s 5,000-year architectural legacy. It unpacks the defining traits of China’s unique building system—from its iconic wooden framework and dougong bracket assemblies to its sweeping curved roofs—while linking architectural evolution to cultural values, social norms, and environmental needs across dynasties. The book traces key eras: pre-Qin foundational designs, grand Han and Tang imperial complexes, intricate Song Dynasty craftsmanship, and the opulent Ming and Qing imperial palaces. It also compares two pivotal official building manuals, the *Yingzao Fashi* (Song Dynasty) and *Gongcheng Zuofa Zeli* (Qing Dynasty), and examines how traditional structures reflect Chinese philosophy, ethics, and daily life. Plus, it covers modern preservation efforts and the future of merging traditional wisdom with contemporary design, making it essential for anyone curious about China’s cultural heritage through architecture.

Peter Hessler

4.1545 learners

Peter Hessler’s *Country Driving* takes readers on a vivid, eye-opening road trip across early 2000s China, using his newly obtained driver’s license as a key to unlock the nation’s hidden corners. Split into three interconnected parts, the book begins with a meandering journey along the Great Wall, where Hessler encounters rural villagers, crumbling historical sites, and the quiet erosion of traditional life amid desertification. Next, he dives into China’s burgeoning auto industry, shadowing Chery’s test drives and meeting young engineers eager to build a domestic car brand from scratch. Finally, he settles in Sancha Village, documenting a farmer’s transition to running a guesthouse, and later explores southern industrial zones—from bra adjuster factories to art “workshops” churning out paintings for export. Through intimate portraits of ordinary people, Hessler captures the chaos, hope, and contradictions of a country racing toward modernity, offering a nuanced alternative to Western stereotypes of China.