BARBARIAN LOST. Travels in the new China

To this day, China remains an enigma. Ancient, complex and fast moving, it defies easy understanding.

A country that has always mesmerized Alexandre “Sacha” Trudeau ever since he was a boy, China provokes memories and emotion in the mind of this prominent filmmaker and journalist. Recounting his experiences in China in recent years, mostly with his trusty translator, Viv, at his side, Trudeau visits businesses and bureaucracies, townspeople and rural farmers, caught in time between the China of our memories and the thrust of progress. The real China lurks in mere hints and shadows, flickering dimly amidst the glare and noise of the modern country. Along the way, each person Trudeau encounters gives away but the smallest secret and each revelation is a surprise that jolts us and tears at our most intimate and secure notions.

This is an intelligent, witty and insightful account of the dynamic changes going on right now in China, as well as a look back into the deeper history of this highly codified society. Without question, Trudeau shines new light on the country as only a traveller with his storytelling abilities could, on the ground with the women and men who make China tick.

ALEXANDRE TRUDEAU is a Canadian filmmaker and journalist. He is the second son of Canada's former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, and Margaret Trudeau, and the younger brother of Canada's current Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.