Rating:  Summary: Another fine book in a useful series. Review: The publisher, Thames and Hudson, does a great job producing all of the books in their "Chronicle" series of historical overviews: sturdy covers; attractive dust jackets; and heavy, slick stock to withstand years of reference and re-reading. These books make important, useful additions to home libraries.This book is a record of China's emperors, from Qin Shihuangdi (221BC), to Puyi (deposed in 1911AD). The story is told in the clear, instructive prose of author Ann Paludan, and the story is supported and enhanced by "368 illustrations with 126 in color", as proclaimed in the dust jacket blurbs. Among the illustrations, one finds photographs of historical locations, art works, and tombs, as well as maps and portraits of the emperors. This is not an exhaustive history, but an informative, easy to follow -- thanks to timelines-- overview. It is quite possible that the basis for many school reports will be found here. It may come as a surprise to many, but this book is enjoyable to read. It is a good choice for a parent, or a student seeking to get acquainted with the Chinese Imperial System, which existed for 2000 years.
Rating:  Summary: Another fine book in a useful series. Review: The publisher, Thames and Hudson, does a great job producing all of the books in their "Chronicle" series of historical overviews: sturdy covers; attractive dust jackets; and heavy, slick stock to withstand years of reference and re-reading. These books make important, useful additions to home libraries. This book is a record of China's emperors, from Qin Shihuangdi (221BC), to Puyi (deposed in 1911AD). The story is told in the clear, instructive prose of author Ann Paludan, and the story is supported and enhanced by "368 illustrations with 126 in color", as proclaimed in the dust jacket blurbs. Among the illustrations, one finds photographs of historical locations, art works, and tombs, as well as maps and portraits of the emperors. This is not an exhaustive history, but an informative, easy to follow -- thanks to timelines-- overview. It is quite possible that the basis for many school reports will be found here. It may come as a surprise to many, but this book is enjoyable to read. It is a good choice for a parent, or a student seeking to get acquainted with the Chinese Imperial System, which existed for 2000 years.
Rating:  Summary: I liked it a lot. Review: The title of the book says it all. It was very informative and concise. Great overview of 2,200 years of Chinese Imperial History.
Rating:  Summary: I liked it a lot. Review: The title of the book says it all. It was very informative and concise. Great overview of 2,200 years of Chinese Imperial History.
Rating:  Summary: Emperors of China Review: The `Chronicle of the Chinese Emperors' by Ann Paludan is an excellent introduction to Chinese history. This book chronologically lists the emperors of China, showing their regnal names in Chinese characters. Paintings show us what the emperors looked like, timelines show when they lived, and there are accounts of the reigns and accomplishments of powerful emperors like Taizung and Shihuangti. Maps show the growth of China and invasions of barbarian tribes. .Features about Chinese history, culture, art and architecture are included. There are histories of the rise and fall of the influence of Buddhism, Taoism, and bureaucracy. The only problem with this book is that it does not delve as deep into Chinese history as the huge amounts of Chinese source provide.
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