In the Dragon's Shadow

Southeast Asia in the Chinese Century

By: Sebastian Strangio

Narrated by: Joe Barrett

A timely look at the impact of China's booming emergence on the countries of Southeast Asia.

Today, Southeast Asia stands uniquely exposed to the waxing power of the new China. Three of its nations border China, and five are directly impacted by its claims over the South China Sea. All dwell in the lengthening shadow of its influence: economic, political, military, and cultural. As China seeks to restore its former status as Asia's preeminent power, the countries of Southeast Asia face an increasingly stark choice: flourish within Beijing's orbit or languish outside of it. Meanwhile, as rival powers including the United States take concerted action to curb Chinese ambitions, the region has emerged as an arena of heated strategic competition.

Drawing on more than a decade of on-the-ground experience, Sebastian Strangio explores the impacts of China's rise on Southeast Asia, the varied ways in which the countries of the region are responding, and what it might mean for the future balance of power in the Indo-Pacific.

©2020 Sebastian Strangio (P)2020 Tantor

Great book

This is an exceptionally thorough book about a region rarely written, even though a good deal of the worlds population resides within it. An in-depth look at South East Asian countries and their histories that is fascinating for anyone interested in relationships between China and the US. Sadly the performance of the narrator is woefully lacking. His inability to pronounce the names of cultures and people was frankly terrible and undermines what is a fantastic history book.

Context for Asian Politics

This book provides great context for China’s relationship with its southern neighbors. The author provides a survey of each ASEAN members relations, interests, and recent past with China. I appreciate the details on how China is trying to leverage national ties with the ethnic Chinese who have lived in ASEAN countries for decades and even centuries.

Well researched and informative

Well researched and informative analysis of Chinese role and influence throughout Southeast Asia. High level of detail.

Limited appeal

I dropped a credit on this book a while ago, probably as spending for a promotion. So, finally got around to listening this year. Reminded me of textbooks when I was an International Affairs student years ago. In this case, wonky material keeps me from recommending it for general interest. A bit dated (covid pandemic situation appears in the Afterword as recent event), but worthwhile for those with a strong interest in Chinese foreign affairs. Narrator did a solid job with the not-that-exciting text.