These letters provide a fascinating insider's account of everyday life in China at a time when, although the country is rapidly undergoing change, it is still possible to "catch some of the old China".The author has something to say on every aspect of life: the cold winters and hot stifling summers; Chinese social customs, both traditional and modern; working and living conditions; love and marriage. Nothing escapes her attention.She is at her most informative when describing her personal experience both in coping with domestic problems, and with the issues of her professional life in the field of education administration and teaching. For instance, at a college where she works, the author encounters a culture of gossip and confusion rather than straight communication. However, the most important thing is that, in the process, she acquires not only new friends, but a new world view.With the aid of these perceptive and well balanced observations, the reader easily forms an impression of contemporary China and what it means to live there as a Westerner. The letters, written in an appropriately relaxed and informal style, serve as a valuable source of information for all those interested in the country.