Half Biography, half business book, this one offers a great picture of modern China.

The life of Jack Ma is captivating and the path of early Chinese internet entrepreneurs too. The Alibaba strategy is explained in depth and allows you to understand the whole China internet landscape (but not only) in a very pleasant manner. Everything from strategy of Chinese company vs foreign market leaders (eBay, Yahoo…) is well explained and documented, as well of the investment background in Asia and its frenzy to conquer the big China market.

Takeaways

• Must read if you want to understand how China works (or improve your understanding if you are already there)
• Somehow reminds me of several history class I had on Asia (the 3 dragons / tigers of the world’s manufacturing boom), which was really pleasant to be honest
• Numerous strategic takeaway