God’s Chinese Son

By: Jonathan D. Spence

I finished this book about two weeks ago, and while it is not a page turner, it is an incredibly insightful look into a volatile period of time in Chinese history.  Spence’s recounting of the reign of Hong Xiuquan during the Taiping rebellion sheds light on the government’s suspicion of religion and foreigners.  In addition, the development of this movement also reveals the danger of mixing truth with prideful ambition.  Some may find this book a dense and lengthy read, but any wishing to understand the history behind the current religious climate in China would do well to take the time to wade through it.