An Encyclopedia of Tigers

Sun Zhanli, Editor

China Translation & Publishing House, 2008

383pp.    Paperback     250 color illustrations

This beautifully-illustrated and thoroughly-researched book offers an extensive look at tigers and their place in Chinese society and culture.  Both revered and hunted nearly to extinction for its medicinal properties -- real or imagined -- the tiger is a protected species in China and still a source of pride for most Chinese.  More than 300 images grace this magnificent book.  Whether you are a zoologist or a person taken by these majestic beasts, this book has it all! 

As a reference it offers unmatched information on the history of the species and its different breeds in China.  As a layperson, this book is an engrossing read as page after page finds the big cats roaming their domain, though nearly the entire population is kept in secure habitats (and tourist sites) in northern China.