For students, travelers, and other readers, this volume introduces the different aspects of Chinese popular culture, with a focus on trends that have occurred mostly since the 1970s. Latham (anthropology and sociology, U. of London, UK) provides historical and cultural background and discusses contemporary practices in mass media, television, radio, newspapers, magazines, film, the internet and telecommunications, leisure time, sports and martial arts, theatre, and popular music. These chapters are preceded by discussion of Chinese history, its political territories, and language. Annotation ©2007 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)