Having resigned from an ill-suited job in the banking sector, Henry Virgin answered an advertisement and set off to teach English in a factory town in South China. This book recounts the last 3 months of his 9 months teaching in China.This book is an evocative and funny account of life in South China at the turn of the millenium.

Henry Virgin's book, "Teaching in Tangxia," is a memoir-style diary that gives readers a glimpse into the life of a young English teacher in South China in 2002. The author provides a clear and concise account of his experiences in Tangxia, a small town in the Guangdong province, as he grapples with cultural differences, psychological challenges, and self-discovery.

Virgin's diary discusses the challenges of teaching English in a foreign country and how he had to adapt to the educational system in China. This theme is woven throughout the book and provides readers with fascinating insights into the cultural nuances of China. The author also discusses the psychological impact of teaching in a foreign country, including culture shock and feelings of isolation.

Identity and self-discovery are other significant themes in the book. Virgin reflects on his own identity as an English teacher in China and the challenges he faces in reconciling his personal beliefs and values with those of his Chinese colleagues and students. He grapples with questions of authenticity and integrity, particularly in regards to the way he presents himself in the classroom.

The book's psychological content is further enhanced by the author's use of introspection and reflection. Virgin frequently reflects on his experiences and feelings, and he writes candidly about his struggles and challenges. His introspection adds depth and complexity to the book, as readers are given a glimpse into the author's inner world and the emotional journey he undergoes while teaching in Tangxia.

Humor is also a key element in the book, as Virgin uses it to cope with the challenges he faces as a foreigner living in a new and unfamiliar culture. His humorous approach to life in Tangxia helps him to maintain a positive attitude. The author also shares his experiences of romance in China, which adds a romantic aspect to the diary.

The book's geopolitical context cannot be ignored. China was still in the early stages of its rapid economic growth and modernization, with the government implementing various policies to attract foreign investment and promote economic development. This period also saw a growing interest in Western culture, with English language education becoming increasingly important. Virgin's diary reflects on the challenges of teaching English to students who were often more interested in learning about Western culture than in mastering the language itself.

The author also touches on broader geopolitical issues, including the tension between the United States and China, especially in the aftermath of the September 11th terrorist attacks. He reflects on the cultural differences between China and the West, and the challenges of navigating these differences as a foreigner living in China.

Overall, Henry Virgin's "Teaching in Tangxia" is a compelling and thought-provoking memoir that explores a range of themes, including cultural differences, psychological challenges, and self-discovery. The book offers readers a fascinating insight into the challenges and rewards of teaching in a foreign country and the emotional journey that accompanies such an experience. The book is recommended for readers who are interested in learning about China's rapid modernization and increasing global influence, as well as those interested in personal narratives that explore themes of cultural exchange and self-discovery.
About the Author: Having studied the Philosophy of Religion at London University, Henry Virgin's career path has been diverse and peripatetic. Writing poetry has been his mission since he left school in the 1990s. Inspired by his Chinese experience, he set up a tea compnay importing organic green tea from China http: //www.greenboar.co