Beauty Wind and Rain: Notes on American-Chinese Life and Culture

Author: (USA) Liang Ren
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-10-01
Features: A quick read that explores the American mindset and lifestyle. Want to know how Americans think today? Want to know how Americans live now? Read this book! The author has lived in the USA since childhood for over 20 years, traveled to more than 50 countries worldwide, and accumulated decades of experience living and working in both the US and China. With 80 articles, the book describes the differences in lifestyle philosophies between the two nations, covering everything from personal customs in daily life (like food, clothing, housing, and transportation) to social phenomena (such as street environments and government-citizen interactions). Each short piece is based on the author's firsthand observations or experiences, ranging from small topics like pet rights (dogs, cats, chickens, fish, shrimp) and clothing choices (suits, ties, casual wear) to bicycles and motorcycles, to larger themes like immediate benefits vs. futuristic consumption, credit and credit cards, and the "poor man's bank" in the US, and more. The book is written in a humorous, witty, and engaging style, making it a highly informative and entertaining popular read.