Questions About River Town: Two Years on the Yangtze

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Answered Questions (2)

Which of Peter Hessler's books are your favorites?

Elizabeth I have only read two of Peter Hessler's books. I read his books about traveling in China. River Town is my favorite and then Country Driving is secon…more I have only read two of Peter Hessler's books. I read his books about traveling in China. River Town is my favorite and then Country Driving is second. (less)

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Are there any discussion groups in goodreads going on about this book "River Town"? I am new to this community and not exactly sure how it really works!

Sara
1) It just shows that Hessler's not a saint, and honestly did we expect him to be one?
2) Is Hessler anti-communist?
3) Are the advertisement slogans th…more
1) It just shows that Hessler's not a saint, and honestly did we expect him to be one?
2) Is Hessler anti-communist?
3) Are the advertisement slogans that pepper US countryside any less worthless mind numbing propaganda than "happy happy safe safe" Communist party slogans?
4) Should the US adopt a one child per family policy?
5) Why even bring up Hessler’s pedigree? Why mention his uptown family? Why mention the connections to New York publishing at all?
6) Will he ever find solace for what he discovers about himself during his time in China?
7) The American propaganda instrument, in a country famous for its propaganda according to the Americans, is somewhat nuancily handled through the book. How much of this is unfair to the very generous Chinese hosts?
8) Could you relate to some of the feelings that the author had?
9) Did you enjoy reading about his experience as a "temporary resident" and being the richest he's ever been even if he didn't make much money?
10) Were you aware of the Uguyher conflict?
11) Was it a surprise to learn that China allowed Peace Corps volunteers in the 1990s?
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