This is not an excursion guide. It is a collection of writings to friends, and articles published in the China Daily newspaper that describe living and working in China. As such it contains much useful and interesting information about this country and its people, sometimes serious but often amusing. For example, it does not suggest a restaurant to go to, but it describes what to expect when you are admitted to hospital. Photographs used are more personal rather than attractive tourist advertisements.

Ted Mason was a teacher in the UK for many years before working as an education adviser in Shanxi, China for five years. His experiences in this vast and developing country make interesting reading and an invaluable source of information for anyone thinking of living and working there.

What happens when a Chinese travel agency sends you to a restricted military area! Have you ever seen an inflatable elephant cross the road? How is China tackling environmental issues?

Ted has also written short stories for children based on his teaching and childhood experiences.