Shanghai Grand by Taras Grescoe

I continue my study of China with this fascinating book, an in depth review of Shanghai - the Paris of Asia in the years leading up to World War II. 

The book tells the story of Emily “Mickey” Hahn, an American writer, adventurer and flapper, who moves to Shanghai in 1935. 

It also features the story of Sir Victor Sassoon, a British tycoon from India, who builds an empire in Shanghai, including the Cathay Hotel, alluded to in the book’s title. 

In fact, the book tells the story of dozens more figures of intrigue, who each reflect the glamour, boldness, depravity and vivacity of 1930s Shanghai. 

This unique genre of storytelling - uncovering a unique time and place in history - through mini biographies of its peoples - intrigues me. It’s a wonderful way to tell history. 

China is a massive subject no matter how you reckon it. But I’m starting to get my hooks into it with books like this.