A testament to the power of determination and the immense value of friendships. For readers looking for inspiration in times of uncertainty, "JOURNEY TO THE WEST" provides a blueprint for sticking to a seemingly impossible ambition and getting past the winning post. With a focus on 'lessons learnt', Wang draws conclusions from the formative events in his life, which gradually emerge as a useful guide to avoiding life's pitfalls and maximising the chances of success. His story demonstrates how, with a strong sense of direction and friends by your side, barriers to success can be overcome. "JOURNEY TO THE WEST" is also a timely reminder, at a time when the emerging power of China is seen as a threat to the West, that we are all one species, with the same needs and desires, as through his storytelling Biao Wang gives China and the Chinese a human face. All in all, it's a fascinating read. Biao Wang tells a terrific story, his informal chatty style will quickly draw the reader in as we get to admire his resilience, integrity and thoughtfulness in this memoir of a young man's journey from poverty in China to a comfortable successful life in England. "JOURNEY TO THE WEST" is a cultural bridge as well as a thoroughly enjoyable and absorbing read. As Biao Wang most eloquently says "If I've learned anything, it is that success is possible, whatever your situation and however your life begins. I hope that this story, my story, will prove inspirational and that it will encourage others to dream big, take a plunge, use whatever resources are available. If a small poor boy fishing for prawns on a lake in Ningbo can do it, then so can you." So, fasten your seat belts and take note as you travel from one extraordinary chapter to another - it should be an inspiration to us all.