Book Author
The 49th edition of this definitive annual resource provides expert historical context and contemporary analysis of East and Southeast Asia. It offers essential regional insights for students, journalists, and international development professionals.
For over twenty years, Dr. Steven A. Leibo has authored the East & Southeast Asia volume of the prestigious World Today Series. This 2016–2017 edition continues a legacy of excellence, providing the meticulous research and lively narrative necessary to understand one of the world’s most dynamic regions.
The volume is uniquely designed to help readers gain a thorough understanding of the region within a single semester by masterfully interweaving history with current events:
Historical Foundations: Provides deep historical, cultural, and social context, taking readers from the depths of history to modern times.
Contemporary Challenges: Focuses on modern political and economic developments, alongside environmental issues like climate change.
Regional & Thematic Analysis: Features broad introductory chapters that explore regional themes such as the role of religion, the impact of globalization, and gender issues.
Dr. Leibo painstakingly analyzes the entire region to shed light on its complex changing dynamics:
Major Powers: Detailed discussions on China and Japan occupy approximately 25% of the book.
Diverse Nations: Significant attention is dedicated to smaller nations, including Brunei, East Timor, and Myanmar.
Oceanic Inclusion: The addition of Australia and New Zealand provides an even more attractive and comprehensive regional view.
Combining factual accuracy with informed projections, this book is an outstanding resource for a wide variety of global professionals:
Global Development & Policy: A key tool for practitioners in international development and government officials.
Journalism & Research: Provides a lively, convincing, and verified reference for media professionals and researchers.
The Classroom & Library: Perfect for an introductory university course or as a general library reference for the layman.
Title: East and Southeast Asia 2016–2017
Series: The World Today Series (49th Edition)
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
Publication Date: July 29, 2016
Print Length: 330 pages
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1475829068
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5 stars on Amazon Tienkuo the Heavenly Kingdom
This book was thought provoking and action-packed. I recommend this book to anyone seeking a better understanding of Chinese culture and the role religion plays on humanity. It’s a beautiful read.
5 stars on Amazon Tienkuo the Heavenly Kingdom
Reviewed in the United States on January 20, 2020
I was reminded of some of Pearl Buck's writings. Like hers, the storytelling in this book is very accurate of the times. It is a wonderful story with believable characters and a strong, interesting plot.
5 stars on Amazon Tienkuo the Heavenly Kingdom
Reviewed in the United States on January 24, 2020
Received a copy of this book free and felt like leaving a review. This book is A step back in time. This historical fiction really paints the picture and has you empathizing with the characters. Books like these really make you see just how far we have come and how far we still have to go
Tienkuo The Heavenly Kingdom
"Exciting book…I like it very much. The characters are believable and the cultural details about customs accurate.” Dr. Alice Murong Pu Lin, author of Grandmother Had No Name."
“I enjoyed the novel immensely–it’s a fun and exciting read.” Tienkuo The Heavenly Kingdom "
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