China: the balance sheet. All you wanted to know but where afraid to ask.

The Center for Stategic and International Studies (CSIS) along with the Institute of International Economics (IIE), two of Washington's most influential think thanks, have just published China: the Balance Sheet, in perfect timing for President Hu's visit.  The small book is wonderful.  It is intended as a convenient "one stop shop" for all you wanted to know about China --it extraordinary rise and future--, and is authoritatively well written. The main argument of the book is that a prosperous and stable future for the US, and the world, crucially depends on how US handles the "China Question".  Hence, "getting China right" is and will be the challenge for policymakers not only in the United States, but in Europe and the rest of the world as well.  To acomplish such a feat, requires understanding of the profound changes that have been taking place in China, as well as the challanges it faces.  Is this the tipping point for China: Growth or collapse? Democratization or disorder? Opportunity or threat? Partner or rival?

China everyday becomes more complex and more contradictory.  Its rise will be the story and driver of the XXI century.  It's more important than ever to understand and ask the right questions.