Peter Hessler on his new book, "Other Rivers: A Chinese Education"

This podcast episode delves into the experiences of the speaker while teaching in Chengdu, China, and highlights the diverse and inspiring students encountered. It explores the significance of relationships in Chinese education and culture, the enduring rural values in urban life, the lasting impacts of poverty and rural upbringing on Chinese students, and the differences between the Chinese and Western education systems. The episode also explores the importance of humor and empathy when navigating China's peculiarities, the challenges of reporting on the COVID-19 pandemic, the presence of Orwell's books in Chinese classrooms, and the role of competition in an authoritarian society. It concludes with discussions on independent student publications, the impact of political decisions, and book recommendations.