In the 1971, Ross Terrill was invited by the Mao regime to tour China and write about the country for the journal Atlantic Monthly. The time frame was when China was "opening up" to the West... as US Sec'y of State Henry Kissinger had visited the country, and Richard Nixon's historic trip there was in the offing.

As a political scientist, Harvard lecturer, and editor (of Atlantic Monthly), Terrill brought much experience and talent to the project. This book expands on his Atlantic articles with an account twice as long and supplemented with photographs, presenting his observations, experiences, and impressions, along with reflections on political issues and Nixon's visit. Much has happened since the early 1970s; in fact, China's population has nearly doubled from the number quoted in the title. Although this book has remained in my library for 50 years, I never got around to reading it. This review is my attempt to acknowledge the book's existence as I donate it for others with cultural and historical interests.

An Austrailian that visited China prior to the communists taking over is allowed back for a visit in the early 70's. This is his opinions on the differences he saw now that the communists are in charge. He thinks the poor are much better off now. ( )