Asia Audiobooks | History

Other Rivers: A Chinese Education Audiobook

"More than twenty years after teaching English to China's first boom generation at a small college in Sichuan Province, Peter Hessler returned to teach the next generation. At the same time, Hessler's twin daughters became the only Westerners in a student body of about two thousand in their local primary school. Through reconnecting with his previous students now in their forties - members of China's 'Reform generation' - and teaching his current undergraduates, Hessler is able to tell an intimately unique story about China's incredible transformation over the past quarter-century. In the late 1990s, almost all of Hessler's students were the first of their families to enrol in higher education, sons and daughters of subsistence farmers who could offer little guidance as their children entered a brand-new world. By 2019, when Hessler arrived at Sichuan University, he found a very different China and a new kind of student - an only child whose schooling was the object of intense focus from a much more ambitious and sophisticated cohort of parents. Hessler's new students have a sense of irony about the regime but mostly navigate its restrictions with equanimity, and embrace the astonishing new opportunities China's boom affords. But the pressures of this system of extreme 'meritocracy' at scale can be gruesome, even for much younger children, including his own daughters, who give him a first-hand view of raising a child in China. In Peter Hessler's hands, China's education system is the perfect vehicle for examining what's happened to the country, where it's going, and what we can learn from it. At a time when relations between the UK and China fracture, Other Rivers is a tremendous, indeed an essential gift, a work of enormous human empathy that rejects cheap stereotypes and shows us China from the inside out and the bottom up, using as a measuring stick this most universally relatable set of experiences. As both a window onto China and a distant mirror onto our own education system, Other Rivers is a classic, a book of tremendous value and compelling human interest."

Peter Hessler (Author), Peter Hessler (Narrator)

Audiobook

Ancient Chinese Gods: Jade Emperor, Fuxi, Guandi & Shennong

Samuel Shepherd (Author), Digital Voice Marcus G (Narrator)

Audiobook

Wuhan: How the COVID-19 Outbreak in China Spiraled Out of Control

"The Covid-19 pandemic, which began as an outbreak in Wuhan in late 2019, has claimed millions of lives and caused unprecedented disruptions. Despite its generation-defining significance, there has been a surprising lack of independent research examining the decisions and measures implemented in the weeks leading up to the Wuhan lockdown, as well as the missteps that allowed the novel coronavirus to spread with minimal hindrance. In Wuhan: How the COVID-19 Outbreak in China Spiraled Out of Control, Dali L. Yang scrutinizes China's emergency response to the Covid-19 outbreak in Wuhan, delving into the government's handling of epidemic information and the decisions that influenced the scale and scope of the outbreak. Yang's research reveals that China's health experts had an excellent head start when they implemented a health emergency action program to respond to the outbreak at the end of December 2019. With granular detail and compelling immediacy, Yang investigates the political and bureaucratic processes that hindered information flows, as well as the cognitive framework that limited understanding of the virus's contagiousness and hampered effective decisions. Yang emphasizes the importance of retaining public trust during a pandemic and underscores the need for transparency, openness to new information, and direct communication of risk with the public."

Dali L. Yang (Author), David Shih (Narrator)

Audiobook

History of Tibet: A Captivating Guide to Ancient Kingdoms, the Tibetan Empire, Mongol Invasions, Bud

"Embark on an epic journey through the heart and history of Tibet! Discover the majestic landscapes, ancient traditions, and the relentless quest for freedom in this captivating journey. Explore the spiritual and everyday life of Tibetan civilization, from the mysterious beginnings of its people to their ongoing struggles under Chinese rule. Inside, you will discover: - Ancient Beginnings: Trace the roots of Tibetan civilization and delve into its spiritual heritage. - Spiritual Legacy: Learn about the origins of the Dalai Lama and the profound impact of Tibetan Buddhism. - Kingdoms and Conquests: Explore the historical alliances and conflicts, including the pivotal Mongolian period. - Under Chinese Rule: Unravel the complex history of Tibetan-Chinese relations from ancient ties to modern struggles. Why This Audiobook: - Unique Cultural Insights: This audiobook offers a deep dive into the heart of Tibetan culture, spirituality, and history, illuminating a world that remains largely mysterious to the outside observer. - Timely and Relevant: At a time when the global conversation about cultural preservation and autonomy is more pertinent than ever, this audiobook provides essential context about one of the world’s most enduring struggles for cultural survival and political independence. - Comprehensive and Accessible: Written with both the passionate historian and the casual reader in mind, this audiobook balances scholarly detail with engaging narrative, making the rich history of Tibet accessible to all. Don’t miss out! Scroll up and click the “add to cart” button to start your journey into the heart of Tibet today!"

Captivating History (Author), Jason Zenobia (Narrator)

Audiobook

Intended for Evil: A Survivor's Story of Love, Faith, and Courage in the Cambodian Killing Fields

"How do you survive when everything you hold dear has been ripped away? This is the question Radha Manickam asks himself during the three years and nine months he spends under the merciless rule of the Khmer Rouge. When Khmer Rouge forces take the city of Phnom Penh in 1975, Radha is a new Christian, passionate about living out his faith. Over the next years of his life, 1.7 million of his fellow Cambodians--including most of his own family--will perish due to starvation, disease, and unthinkable violence. As he strives to hold tight to his faith, he finds that in the midst of hell on earth God has not forgotten him. Forced by the communist regime to marry a woman he doesn't know, Radha discovers that God has a plan for his life that he never would have imagined. This compelling true story of survival against incredible odds shows that out of war, fear, despair, and betrayal, God can bring hope, faith, courage, and restoration. 'Thoroughly researched and beautifully written, Intended for Evil blazes with vivid detail.'-- Lynn Vincent, New York Times bestselling coauthor of Same Kind of Different as Me and Heaven Is for Real"

Les Sillars (Author), Les Sillars (Narrator)

Audiobook

Aokigahara: Suicide Forest of Japan And The Truth Behind It

"Aokigahara, also known as the sea of trees, is a forest on the flanks of Mount Fuji on the island of Honshu in Japan, spread over 30 square kilometres of rock hard lava which was laid down during the last major eruption of Mount Fuji in 864. The western edge of Aokigahara, where there are various caves that fill with ice in winter, is a popular destination for tourists. Parts of Aokigahara are very dense, and the porous lava rock absorbs sound, all adding to a sense of solitude that some visitors decide to be the perfect place to implement their final act."

Daniel Turmoil (Author), Derik Hendrikson (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Golden Horde: A Captivating Guide to the European Appanage of the Mongol Empire That Was Ruled

"Unveil the Epic History of the Golden Horde!Journey back to the times of Genghis Khan and discover how he divided his empire into four parts, shaping the course of history. For over two centuries, the Golden Horde ruled a vast region, influencing lands from the Urals to Poland, from the taiga to the Caspian Sea. Explore the Mysteries of the Eurasian Steppe Learn why the Eurasian Steppe, stretching from the Danube to Manchuria, produced nomadic armies that threatened empires in Europe and China for three thousand years. Unravel the Rise of Moscow Understand how Kievan Rus’ dominated Russian lands while Moscow was just an outpost and how Moscow rose to power by aligning with the Mongols. Discover Shocking Historical Events See how a fight in Caffa led to the Black Death devastating Europe. Be surprised by Venice’s and Genoa’s involvement in the slave trade and its connection to the Golden Horde and Mamluk Egypt. Here are just some of the things you will learn about in this audiobook: - Why the Mongols executed the last Abbasid caliph by trampling him to death. - The terror tactics of the Mongols, including the massacre of entire cities. - Why European horses starved on the steppe while Mongol ponies thrived. - The diverse trade items that traveled the Silk Road - How medieval merchants navigated bureaucracy by bribing customs officials in Crimea. To delve into these captivating stories and the profound impact of the Golden Horde, scroll up and click the “add to cart” button now!"

Captivating History (Author), Jay Herbert (Narrator)

Audiobook

[Panjabi] - Azadnama: Fansi De Takhte Ton Jail Chitian

"Azadnama (Fansi De Takhte Ton Jail Chitian) is a significant compilation of letters penned by Shaheed Bhai Sukhdev Singh Sukha and Shaheed Bhai Harjinder Singh Jinda while they were imprisoned in Yervada Jail, Pune, prior to their martyrdom on October 9, 1992. This collection, titled Azadnama, offers an intimate glimpse into the thoughts, emotions, and ideologies of these revered Sikh martyrs during their final days. The book, meticulously edited by Parmjeet Singh Gazi, an esteemed editor at Sikh Siyasat, and Ranjeet Singh, a dedicated research scholar, stands as a vital historical document. Azadnama not only chronicles the personal reflections of Sukha and Jinda but also provides broader insights into the political and social climate of their time. Published by Bibekgarh Parkashan, a renowned Sikh publishing house, Azadnama is of immense historical value. It serves as a valuable resource for those interested in recent Sikh history and the struggles faced by its prominent figures. The correspondence captured in Azadnama illustrates the resilience and commitment of Sukha and Jinda to their cause, even as they faced the ultimate sacrifice. For scholars, historians, and anyone invested in understanding the recent Sikh struggle, Azadnama offers an unparalleled perspective through primary sources. The collection is not merely a historical record but a testament to the enduring spirit of the Sikh community in its quest for justice and freedom."

Shaheed Bhai Harjinder Singh Jinda, Shaheed Bhai Sukhdev Singh Sukha (Author), Mehar Singh (Narrator)

Audiobook

Freedom's Battle

"'Freedom's Battle' by Mahatma Gandhi compiles powerful writings and speeches from Gandhi's relentless campaign for India's independence. Through eloquent reflections on nonviolent resistance, civil disobedience, and the ethical foundations of a free society, Gandhi articulates his vision for justice and equity. This compelling work provides profound insights into the principles that fueled the fight against colonial oppression and offers timeless lessons on courage, integrity, and the quest for human dignity."

Mohandas Gandhi (Author), James Harrington (Narrator)

Audiobook

Japanese Goddesses: Amaterasu, Izanami, Uzume & Benzaiten

Samuel Shepherd (Author), Digital Voice Marcus G (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Lucky Ones: A Memoir

"A moving memoir by a survivor of anti-Muslim violence in contemporary India that delicately weaves political and family histories in a tribute to her country's unique Islamic heritage-"a must-read in our warring world today" (NPR) "A harrowing survivor's tale, an important history lesson, and a desperate warning from someone who has seen the tragic effects of ethnic violence."-Time A KIRKUS REVIEWS BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR • FINALIST FOR THE PEN/GALBRAITH AWARD FOR NONFICTION In 2002, Zara Chowdhary is sixteen years old and living with her family in Ahmedabad, one of India's fastest-growing cities, when a gruesome train fire claims the lives of sixty Hindu right-wing volunteers and upends the life of five million Muslims. Instead of taking her school exams that week, Zara is put under a three-month siege, with her family and thousands of others fearing for their lives as Hindu neighbors, friends, and members of civil society transform overnight into bloodthirsty mobs, hunting and massacring their fellow citizens. The chief minister of the state at the time, Narendra Modi, will later be accused of fomenting the massacre, and yet a decade later, will rise to become India's prime minister, sending the "world's largest democracy" hurtling toward cacophonous Hindu nationalism. The Lucky Ones traces the past of a multigenerational Muslim family to India's brave but bloody origins, a segregated city's ancient past, and the lingering hurt causing bloodshed on the streets. Symphonic interludes offer glimpses into the precious, ordinary lives of Muslims, all locked together in a crumbling apartment building in the city's old quarters, with their ability to forgive and find laughter, to offer grace even as the world outside, and their place in it, falls apart. The Lucky Ones entwines lost histories across a subcontinent, examines forgotten myths, prods a family's secrets, and gazes unflinchingly back at a country rushing to move past the biggest pogrom in its modern history. It is a warning thrown to the world by a young survivor, to democracies that fail to protect their vulnerable, and to homes that won't listen to their daughters. It is an ode to the rebellion of a young woman who insists she will belong to her land, family, and faith on her own terms."

Zara Chowdhary (Author), Zara Chowdhary (Narrator)

Audiobook

The land of the Hittites (Unabridged)

"This audiobook is narrated by a digital voice. Unveiled from the sands of time, a lost civilization comes alive in 'The Land of the Hittites' by John Garstang. Embark on a thrilling archaeological adventure as Garstang peels back the layers of history, uncovering the secrets of the Hittite Empire. This forgotten kingdom, once a major power in the ancient world, dominated Anatolia for centuries. Journey through towering ruins of forgotten cities, decipher cryptic hieroglyphs, and explore the rich culture and customs of this enigmatic people. 'The Land of the Hittites' is more than just a historical account - it's a captivating story of discovery and a testament to the enduring power of human civilization."

John Garstang (Author), Digital Voice Marcus G (Narrator)

Audiobook

Asia Audiobooks in History