Age of Ambition: Chasing Fortune, Truth, and Faith in the New China by Evan Osnos

In the award-winning book, “Age of Ambition: Chasing Fortune, Truth, and Faith in the New China”, Evan Osnos takes us on a deep dive into the political, social, cultural and economic changes that have occurred in China over the past decade. Through deep investigative reporting, interviews with political and religious leaders, and extraordinary access to everyday citizens on the ground Osnos illuminates the ways that millions of Chinese are embracing ambition and rejecting traditional values.

The book begins by exploring the massive economic changes that have occurred in China over the last decade, as the country has experienced one of the most rapid periods of economic development of any country in the world. This has elevated millions of people out of poverty and raised living standards, but it has also exacerbated economic inequality and brought with it environmental destruction. In addition to these economic changes, we see how Chinese citizens have embraced a newfound freedom to pursue their ambitions and construct individual identities, in contrast with the traditional collectivism and hierarchy.

Osnos also looks at the rise of religion in China and how it has become a source of hope and inspiration for many. Christianity, Tibetan Buddhism, and Islam are all experiencing a surge in popularity, resulting in the construction of new places of worship and centers of learning. At the same time, Osnos points to the Church of the Almighty God, a cult-like sect, as an example of how religious belief can turn into dangerous extremism.

The final part of the book focuses on the momentous political changes taking place in China, as President Xi Jinping has become the most powerful leader since Mao Zedong. Xi wields an unprecedented level of control and has implemented a range of measures, including an anti-corruption campaign, increased censorship, and efforts to centralize power. Osnos also looks at two key political movements: the New Citizen Movement, which has pushed for greater freedom of speech and the 'right to be heard', and the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong, which has been met with increasing repression from China.

Age of Ambition is a meticulously-researched and powerfully written exploration of modern China. It shines a light on the hopes, fears, and ambitions of the people living in this rapidly changing country, providing a powerful and intimate portrait of a nation in transformation. Osnos does an admirable job of examining the complexities and nuances of the changes taking place in China, offering an insightful and thought-provoking look at the world’s second largest economy. The book is an essential read for anyone wanting to gain an in-depth understanding of modern China.