This is a fantastric book BUT be warned its not for the novice and is realy very very heavy going, the author delves right into the meaning of so many aspects of the Chinese language and writing system that the book becomes more of a drugery to read than an enjoyment. that aside it does give a very very deep understanding of the subject and all its aspects and the excercises are very well explained and the photography is first class!. My advice if you buy this book it may take about a month to read bit its worth the effort in the end.