Rights Information

All rights available

Reviews

“Mr. Hui, whose luck was as fickle as Hong Kong’s modern history, claims to have bounced from rags to riches more than once, in the process encountering opium dens, brothels, Hong Kong’s pre-World War II high society, Japanese occupiers and Red Guards. Because of his whimsical attitude toward money and underworld and upper-class connections, Mr. Hui’s tales range across almost every imaginable stratum of Hong Kong society.” – Paul Mozur, Far Eastern Economic Review

“Hui’s story gives us glimpses of a Hong Kong – the opium dens, the pool halls, the nightclubs, the casinos and the girls, girls, girls – not adequately reflected in official histories of the city. Suzie Wong, the cinematic representation of the Hong Kong of this era, could have been Hui’s girlfriend – at least before William Holden butted in. …The book’s biggest achievement, however, is that its protagonist’s triumphs and tragedies wind up underscoring the dynamism of the city and the times that shaped him.” – Kent Ewing, Asia Times

“A remarkably accessible depiction of life under British and Japanese control … it effectively exposes the sordid underbelly of colonial society as we’re led down a path of scandal, corruption, drugs, espionage, and of course pirates, providing a fascinating alternative to the often stuffy discourse on the subject. The book is an incredibly informative read, and a must for all Hong Kong enthusiasts.” – Sam Burrough, HK Magazine

Author Biography

Jonathan Chamberlain was brought up in Ireland and Hong Kong. After graduating in Social Anthropology at Sussex University, he returned to Hong Kong where he lived for many years as a teacher and writer. His other works include Cancer: The Complete Recovery Guide. In addition to his writing work, Jonathan founded two charities: The Hong Kong Down Syndrome Association and Mental Handicap Network China.