East And West By Christopher Patten

June of 1997, over a century and a half of British rule in Hong Kong came to an end. Chris Patten writes about his experiences as the last governor of the colony of Hong Kong. He explains why he adopted the stance that he did, and how he fought his battles.

When my wife, Pam, and I first moved, more or less permanently to Hong Kong, Chris Patten was the newly appointed and last Governor. I think we both missed much of the drama that was evident in the five years he was here. We were too focused on our jobs and figuring out how to live in this incredible city. 

Reading his memoir and advice, 12 years after the handover and 10 years after publication of this book, was a much needed trip down memory lane and a much needed reminder of how China operates and what is needed to successfully deal with her politicians and to a certain extent her business people.

Patten writes with a nice light touch and understated humor. He is humble in the extreme but also unafraid of presenting his ideas and his principles.