E-20 - CHINA’S BACKSTORY: THE HISTORY BEIJING DOESN'T WANT YOU TO READ, by Lee Moore (Unsung Voices Books, 2025)

John talks to Lee Moore about his unconventional history book, China’s Backstory, which focuses on four important China-related subjects that frequently make headlines: Taiwan, Xinjiang, the Chinese economy, and Hong Kong. John previously discussed the book’s Taiwan section with Lee on an episode of Formosa Files, and its Xinjiang and Hong Kong sections on the Books on Asia podcast. This time, they turn their attention to China’s economy, focusing on three historical periods that offer powerful lessons for the present day. We think you’ll agree that the conversation is both informative and highly entertaining.

Be sure to check out:

• China’s Backstory: The History Beijing Doesn’t Want You to Read
• Lee Moore on Formosa Files: “China’s Backstory” and Taiwan before 1800
• Lee Moore on the Books on Asia podcast: Xinjiang, the Uyghurs, and China’s Backstory
• The Chinese Literature Podcast, hosted by Lee Moore