It's All Chinese to Me
An Illustrated Overview of Culture and Etiquette in China
A guide to Chinese culture and etiquette which is both comprehensive and easy to understand.
The how and why Chinese culture and etiquette differs from Western culture are both spelled out and illustrated in this entertaining and informative book on life in modern-day China. Just in time for the 2008 summer Olympics in Beijing this travel guide uses illustrations to replace thousands of words. The result is a book which is short enough and easy enough to read during a flight from Canada to China, but entertaining enough to read for pure pleasure. Whether entertained or not, after reading It’s All Chinese to Me the reader will definitely be more informed on China and the Chinese people as a whole.
Culture Gap
After living, working and studying in the Republic of China for eight years Pierre Ostrowski and Gwen Penner experienced first hand the gaps in understanding between Western and Chinese cultures and peoples. They wrote this book, which Gwen Penner also illustrated, to help bridge some of these gaps and to demystify Chinese culture. Though perhaps not part of their initial impetus in writing their book, and if this book is made available in China, it may also help to demystify Western culture for the Chinese.
Chinese Culture
The generalization that this book covers all Asian countries can not be made. It’s All Chinese to Me is just that, China specific. The book gives a brief overview of Chinese history, politics, religious and philosophical beliefs as they relate to the Republic of China today. They bravely attempt to cover all events contributing to the forrmation of present day Chinese culture, from the four great inventions of ancient China, to Confucian hierarchy, to the importance the modern-day Chinese place on scholarship. The insight into the Chinese view of scholarship and university life is invaluable for anyone who either teaches, works with or hosts students from China.
Understanding Chinese People
No one likes to be embarrassed and disrespected. This includes the people of China. The crucial concepts of gaining Face and losing Face are eloquently explained, along with the stages of culture shock which nearly all visitors to a foreign country experience. To a foreigner Chinese superstitions and habits may seem rather peculiar, but Western habits may seem just as foreign to the Chinese. The authors highlight several habits which are perceived as rude in China, but are viewed as well mannered in North America. Etiquette for everyday behaviours is provided, including blowing ones nose, proper use of a toothpick, and how to give as well as receive a compliment.
Chinese Business Culture
Though definitely not a definitive guide to doing business in China, business basics are covered in this book, substantiated with a great bibliography of where to garner further knowledge. Ostrowski and Penner can’t stress enough the dire consequences when social blunders are committed during a business deal in China. Their advice to Westerners is to read and learn as much as possible about Chinese culture, business practices and negotiation tactics before entering the realm of commerce in China.
Ostrowski, Pierre and Penner, Gwen. "It's All Chinese to Me" (2008) All Out Press, ISBN 978-0-9784409-4-7
