Discover Shanghai

by: Eric N. Danielson

Singapore : Marshall Cavendisj International (Asia) Private Limited 2010, Paperback
ISBN: 978-981-261-782-8

Reviewed by: Jacqueline M. Newman
Spring Volume: 2012 Issue: 19(1) page(s): 22

Written by an American teaching at a college in Shanghai since 1998, this is Eric's fifth book about China, one that people in or going to Shanghai should not be without. Broader than most city tour tomes, it covers rich cultural heritage, many hidden architectural gems, and the broader municipality. Want to really know a large Chinese city, not just a downtown, check our the dozens of gems in this exciting city, all listed in its Table of Contents.

The book looks at local people, their lifestyles, and their heritage. Need items in a hurry, this volume has a subject index following the two-page contents; they are in page order. It features buildings, places of worship, even natural locations. The color photographs within are clear and inviting, a sure-fire help when in the neighborhood but not in the right place.

Only one restaurant is singled out, just outside the Guyi Yuan Gate. Surely it is one not to be missed, nor should their Xiao Long Bao, that is their very famous soup-filled steamed dumplings be missed either. Enjoy them and the traditional rooms they are served in. They really are the best in this dynamite city, and if you only eat one special food in Shanghai, this is it! They are in a fantastic location, in classic rooms, and are with many other fine foods also not to be missed. If you wonder how popular they are with the locals, find out by watching the crowds at their take-out window. After doing so, do not miss these Shanghai culinary icons.

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