The Souls of China By Ian Johnson

In The Souls of China: The Return of Religion After Mao, Ian Johnson embarks on a profound exploration of China’s spiritual revival in the post-Mao era. This deeply researched and vividly written account takes readers into the heart of a nation rediscovering its spiritual roots after decades of communist rule that sought to eradicate religious practices.

Johnson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, traverses the length and breadth of China, engaging with ordinary people and religious leaders who are revitalizing ancient practices and adapting them to modern life. He delves into the resurgence of Buddhism, Daoism, Christianity, and other faiths, alongside the rise of folk traditions and new spiritual movements. Through compelling narratives, Johnson unveils how this spiritual reawakening is reshaping Chinese society and identity amid rapid urbanization and economic change.

At its core, the book is both a historical analysis and an intimate portrait of individuals seeking meaning and community in a country navigating the complexities of tradition and modernity.

Why Read This Book

• Unique perspective: Gain an insider's view of how religion is evolving in a society often perceived as secular.
• Engaging storytelling: Johnson combines investigative journalism with human stories, making complex issues relatable.
• Cultural insights: Discover the deep connections between China's spiritual traditions and its cultural heritage.
• Timely relevance: Understand the role of religion in shaping China's modern identity and social fabric.
• Authoritative research: Benefit from Johnson's meticulous reporting and expertise as a China scholar.

About the Author

Ian Johnson is an acclaimed journalist, author, and expert on Chinese history and society. He has spent over two decades reporting from China, contributing to esteemed publications like The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The New York Review of Books. Johnson was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting in 2001 for his coverage of China’s underground Christian community and its conflicts with the government.

His other notable works include Wild Grass: Three Stories of Change in Modern China and A Mosque in Munich. Johnson is celebrated for his ability to weave meticulous research with evocative storytelling, bringing to life the complex realities of modern China.