012 - The Last Days of Pekin

Journey back to the year 1900 through the eyes of a French naval officer stationed in China during the tumultuous Boxer Rebellion. This compelling narrative captures the stark realities of war, yet it goes beyond the chaos to unveil the rich and enigmatic civilization that the so-called barbarian forces encountered. With a blend of admiration and a hint of colonial perspective, the author offers a vivid account that invites readers to reflect on both the horrors and the beauty of a world in conflict. (Summary by Peter Tucker)