Jonathan Dimbleby chronicles the five turbulent years leading to Hong Kong’s transfer to Chinese sovereignty on July 1, 1997. Drawing on extensive interviews and contemporary reporting, the narrative follows Chris Patten’s governorship and the political negotiations that reshaped the territory’s future.

The book places the handover in a longer Anglo–Chinese context, tracing threads of imperial and commercial history back to the Opium Wars while foregrounding voices from across Hong Kong society—politicians, diplomats, entrepreneurs and ordinary residents.

Why read it

For readers of modern history, international relations and Asian studies, Dimbleby offers a vivid, well-researched portrait of a pivotal moment in late-20th-century diplomacy and urban life.

• Detailed account of 1992–1997 political events and negotiations
• Firsthand interviews and panoramic city portrait
• Contextual history of Anglo–Chinese relations

We ship at a flat rate of $9.99 per order. Orders $45 and up ship free of charge.