A Journey into the Heart of Modern China: Befriending China's 2026 Edition Befriending China is the Gold Winner of the 2025 Nonfiction Book Award (International Category) from the Nonfiction Authors Association. Author Dee Knight provides a transformative look at a nation often misunderstood by the West. Based on four extensive visits in 2023, 2024 and 2025, this book documents the rapid evolution of a global superpower dedicated to people-to-people peacemaking. It is a compelling account of China's efforts to foster openness, cross-cultural engagement, and mutual understanding in an era defined by geopolitical tension. It blends vivid travel experiences with eye-opening analysis of China's infrastructure, healthcare advancements, poverty alleviation efforts, cultural richness, and social transformations. The 2026 edition includes two new chapters: "The Buzz of Beijing," describing the 80th Anniversary celebration of China's victory over Japanese fascism at the end of World War II; and "Leadership Was the Key in China's Targeted Poverty Alleviation Campaign," a close-up view of the historic elimination of extreme poverty for 800 million people. The narrative includes firsthand observations of Xinjiang in the far west and Guizhou in the southwest, detailed explorations of cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, Chongqing, Hangzhou, and Suzhou, and discussions of the implications of media narratives on global perceptions of China. This book also describes the Belt and Road Initiative and the role of BRICS. Inside this important book, you will discover: Firsthand travel accounts from multiple regions across China, offering perspectives rarely seen in Western media Exploration of the Belt and Road Initiative and how it is changing global cooperation and economic development Examination of how China is reshaping international relations Critical assessment of mainstream media narratives and how they shape Western perceptions of China A peace-forward perspective on U.S.-China relations This book is essential reading for: Students and scholars of international relations, geopolitics, and global affairs Peace activists and advocates for cross-cultural understanding and diplomacy Travelers and cultural explorers seeking authentic perspectives on modern China Anyone interested in understanding China beyond media narratives Educators teaching about contemporary China, international development, or peace