On one level, this is an intriguing account of expat life in Shanghai's International settlement in the early 20th century. On another level is charted the introduction and growth of new western technologies and companies in China. And the backdrop to these stories is early 20th century China itself: the hopes, fears, turmoil and grandeur of the age.

On one level, this is an intriguing account of expat life in Shanghai's International settlement in the early 20th century. On another level is charted the introduction and growth of new western technologies and companies in China. And the backdrop to these stories is early 20th century China itself: the hopes, fears, turmoil and grandeur of the age.