In the early years of the PRC, Fujian was something of a poisoned chalice. Its proximity to Taiwan brought with it a concentration of top cadres who were at first lined up to lead the planned retaking of Taiwan, but later left behind to become a thorn in the side of future governors.

Xiang Nan, a native Fujianese, was one such ‘unlucky’ leader who ran into direct conflict with the cadres. However, thanks to Xiang, the reformers won the day over the hardliners, cementing Fujian as a key player in China’s 1980s ‘Reform and Opening Up’.

Xiang Nan: Champion of Reform in Fujian tells the story of this fearless reformer through pictures and anecdotes from those who knew him best. Featuring many previously unpublished photographs and anecdotes from his travels within China and overseas, readers will gain a fascinating insight into this important figure in recent Chinese history.