Hong Kong has always been something of an anomaly, and an outpost of empire, whether British or Chinese. Once described as a barren island, the former fishing community has been transformed by its own economic miracle into one of Asia's World Cities, taking in its stride the territory's 1997 return to Chinese sovereignty. Beneath the surface of Hong Kong's clich?d self-image as Pearl of the Orient and Shopping Paradise, Michael Ingham reveals a city rich in history, myth, and cultural diversity.
IntroductionChapter One: The Pearl River and the Barren Island: The Story of Hong Kong
Chapter Two: Centers of Power and Imagination: Central and Admiralty
Chapter Three: Suzie's World : from Wan Chai to Happy Valley
Chapter Four: The Great Learning : Pokfulam, Hong Kong University and Western District
Chapter Five: A Floating World: the Peak, Aberdeen, Stanley and Repulse Bay
Chapter Six: Across the Fragrant Harbour: the Nine Dragons
Chapter Seven: Somewhere Between Heaven and Earth : From the New Territories to the Outlying Islands
Further ReadingIndex A boon to literate tourists and engaging for others who know the city. --G.W.McDonogh,
CHOICEMichael Inghamteaches at Lingnan University, Hong Kong, and is a founder member of the local Theatre Action drama group.