China Crosses the Yalu

Mr. Whiting has written that rare book - one free from political inference concerning a political act. China's decision is viewed against the background of the problems and complexities of a fledgling Communist government and the book is as close an inside view as is possible to obtain without access to Red Chinese government sources. The decision to enter North Korea by the leaders of the Chinese government marked China as a real force in international relations, one that she had ceased to be. Naturally it was fraught with serious after effects: close affiliation with Russia; crystallization of the strict Marxist position; a death struggle with the West; and most important, China's role as the image of the Saviour in the East against historical "foreign domination". Whiting also handles other offshoots of China's entering the Korean war, for example, the concept of limited war. This is a capable work, penetrating, and with a feel for the Realpolitik of China's decisions. It is certain to raise many questions among serious students of world Communism. (Kirkus Reviews)