With chapters on the landscapes, history, people, culture and architecture, this lavishly illustrated book opens with a series of stunning double-page photographs of mountains, plains, rivers and forests of China. The illustrated timeline is equally as good, the absorbing profiles of diverse individuals fascinating and the choice historic and modern buildings profiles in the section on architecture outstanding. Produced by the editors at DK with their usual care.  (CHN453, $40.00)

Best of 2007