China's unmatched ability to reinvent itself over the centuries is perhaps its most timeless asset. Even in the wake of violent civil wars, Mongol invaders, and turbulent governance, China has endured and, in recent times, achieved a level of prosperity rivaled by few other countries in the world. The events that transformed China from an imperial nation to a superpower are chronicled in this comprehensive volume that introduces the history of the world's largest and one of its most dynamic populations. Accompanied by vivid images, the narrative provides readers with new perspective on this ancient culture.

Reverberations of China's diversity and multiethnic heritage are visible in everything from the cuisine and languages to the beliefs and arts of the vast nation. In addition to linking the Chinese to their rich past, a number of these traditions have been absorbed by cultures around the world and have granted many entree into a nation otherwise far-removed from their own. This volume treats readers to a unique sensory experience, allowing them to better appreciate the sights, sounds, and tastes that have been developed and refined in China for centuries.

Provides historical information and interpretation on ancient civilizations in Egypt, Mesopotamia, Asia Minor, China, Africa, Israel, and elsewhere.
Ancient Civilizations: Almanac is a two book series that covers twelve civilizations. Book 1 covers 1) Egypt, 2) Mesopotamia, 3) Israel, 4) Phoenicia, Syria, and Arabia, 5) Asia Minor and the Black Sea Region, 6) Persia, and 7) India. Book 2 covers 1) China, 2) the Americas, 3) Africa, 4) Greece, and 5) Rome.

IMDB rating: 4.7/10 (37 votes)
Director: Ron Berrett
Cast: James Snyder, Sun Fei Fei, Anthony Montgomery, Alice Greczyn

A discovery made by a kung fu obsessed American teen sends him on an adventure to China, where he joins up with a band of martial arts warriors in order to free the imprisoned Monkey King.

Jet Li stars in this comic spectacle as a Chinese Robin Hood who stumbles upon a kidnapping scheme after unwittingly opening a martial arts school next to a brothel!

Plot: Aimlessly cruising through his first post-Stanford University summer, 22 year old David Braddock finds himself in China where he meets Mei, an ambitious young girl who urges him to find his life's direction.