CEO China: The Rise of Xi Jinping

CEO China: The Rise of Xi Jinping examines the path and consolidation of power of China's paramount leader Xi Jinping. The book traces Xi's emergence from relative obscurity to his ascent through the Chinese Communist Party ranks. Author Kerry Brown draws on his expertise as a diplomat and China scholar to analyze Xi's leadership style and vision for China's future. The narrative covers Xi's early life, career progression, and the political maneuvering that positioned him to assume China's top posts. Through research and firsthand observations, Brown details the structural changes in Chinese politics under Xi's rule and his impact on both domestic and international affairs. The book includes accounts of key events and decisions that have marked Xi's tenure as China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong. The work presents Xi Jinping not just as an individual political figure, but as a lens through which to understand modern China's governance system and its evolution under single-party rule. Brown's analysis raises questions about power, authority, and the relationship between China's past and its future trajectory.

Readers note the book provides a balanced examination of Xi's rise to power and leadership style, though some found it overly academic in tone. Many commend Brown's detailed research into Xi's early life and career trajectory. Liked: - Clear explanation of China's political system and power structures - Strong analysis of Xi's background and relationships - Helpful insights into decision-making within the CCP Disliked: - Dense academic writing style - Limited coverage of Xi's recent actions and policies - Some readers wanted more on Xi's personal life and character - Several noted the book feels outdated (published 2016) Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (156 ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (42 ratings) Notable reader comment: "Thorough but dry examination of Xi's ascent. Better for academic research than casual reading." - Goodreads reviewer Some readers recommend Kerry Brown's later books on China for more current analysis of Xi's presidency.

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🔸 The author, Kerry Brown, is one of the world's foremost experts on Chinese politics and served as First Secretary at the British Embassy in Beijing. 🔸 Xi Jinping worked as a manual laborer in rural China during the Cultural Revolution, living in a cave dwelling for seven years before his rise to power. 🔸 The book reveals that Xi Jinping was initially considered a compromise candidate for leadership, with many underestimating his eventual consolidation of power. 🔸 During research for the book, Brown had to rely heavily on unofficial sources and careful analysis, as Xi Jinping has never given a formal interview to Western media. 🔸 The book explores how Xi Jinping created his own political theory, "Xi Jinping Thought," which was enshrined in the Chinese Constitution - an honor previously only given to Mao Zedong.