Taiwan's Transformation

This book presents a cogent but comprehensive review of Taiwans socio-economic transformation from a Japanese colony to a thriving East Asian mini-state. Since the 1980s, Taiwan has primarily been viewed as a thriving economic model. Though certainly true, this assessment belies the amazing social and political success story for 23 million people on a small New Hampshire-sized island just off the China coast. Metzler highlights the engaging political narrative of democratization as well as Taiwans noteworthy accomplishments despite the proximity and opposition of communist China. Further, the result of the 2016 elections and its implication are analyzed. Scholars studying East Asia and policy makers will gain a greater appreciation for the islands dynamic, prosperous resilience, despite pressure from China.