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"Daoist Master Changchun's Journey to the West" is a newly translated travel narrative from China that recounts the journey of Daoist master Qiu Chuji, also known as Master Changchun, to the court of Mongol ruler Genghis Khan in the 13th century. The book, part of the Hsu-Tang Library of Classical Chinese Literature series by Oxford University Press, aims to make premodern Chinese literature accessible to everyday readers. The narrative provides insights into geography, agriculture, social customs, and the worldview of a Daoist faithful, while also highlighting the power dynamics between the master and the ruler. The book sheds light on the enduring influence of Daoism and its impact on Chinese history. [Extracted from the article]

"The Other Great Game" by Sheila Miyoshi Jager explores the role of Korea in shaping East Asian history from the 1860s to the early 1900s. Jager argues that Korea cannot be overlooked when studying this period, as it was the center of competition and conflict between Russia, China, and Japan. The book delves into the interventions and alliances of various countries, highlighting the complexities and divisions within each nation. Jager's narrative provides a comprehensive understanding of the Russo-Japanese War and its implications for World War II in Asia. [Extracted from the article]