The story of the theft of priceless Chinese antiques around the world and the connection to crimes spanning more than two centuries—with present-day implications.
Ralph Pezzullo builds a persuasive case ... The evidence to connect the thefts with an event that occurred more than 150 years ago is circumstantial, but Pezzullo’s arguments are plausible ... Pezzullo doesn’t offer much by way of solutions ... This is popular history, not an academic study. There are digressions that don’t add much, and given how much of the story remains unclear, the book cannot be regarded as definitive. But this is an engaging, thought-provoking, and fast-paced read.
Finding clues in the Opium Wars, Pezzullo situates the heists within the
'deep, unhealed cultural wound' that began China’s century of humiliation and continues to propel its politics.
Fascinating … An enthralling history of Chinese relations with the West from the 19th century to the present … Though he doesn’t provide conclusive evidence about all of the thefts, Pezzullo offers a stimulating and entertaining look at their broader context. It’s a treat for history buffs and caper fans alike.
