As someone who loves to travel & loves history but is not experienced in China, I read The Man Who loved China last year - fabulous! (I really like Simon Winchester and have read many of his books) Also read Oracle Bones a couple years ago - that was a work book club sort of option. I've really enjoyed Lisa See's books (Shanghai Girls, Dreams of Joy) Finished Amy Tan's The Valley of Amazement about 2 weeks before I found out I get to go to Shanghai - thought that was timely.

And last year, the ultimate fun beach read - Crazy Rich Asians. (not China but can't resist - it's a fun read) I'll look up some of these others - thank you for this timely thread! Reading really gets me in the mood for travel!