Reading on the way up

More officials are turning to books for self-enhancement and better governing skills. Han Bingbin reports

Yu Zhisheng, a government official on youth relations in Beijing, recently bought 10 copies of a book for his colleagues and friends. The book Wu Shi Qiu Li (Be Practical and Seek Reasons) written by Li Ruihuan, a retired top Chinese political adviser who started as a carpenter and later became one of the most powerful politicians in China, had given Yu insights into analyzing and solving problems at work and he wanted to share the thoughts with his buddies.

Yu is not alone in his enthusiasm. Sharing books are fast becoming a constant trend among government officials that reflects both a need to connect and express their common mindsets.