The Life and Journeys of a Dabizi

About the Book

A very personal look at the development of China from 1973 to 2013 - from Mao to Hu. The author was in the Advance Party that reestablished U.S. relations with China in May 1973 during the time of Mao and Zhou Enlai. His intimate connection to China over the next 40 years provides a unique perspective as he examines the history and culture of China, and especially the development of China since 1973. His journeys took him to China eighteen times covering every administrative area except Macao. This book covers China as they went from drab to ultra modern, from steam engines to super high speed trains, from famine to food exports. We look at religion, education, health care, and more. Finally, we take a close look at the most important historical landmarks in China. This is an autobiography, a history book, a travel book - a perfect read for anyone with an interest in China.

About the Author

Mr. Riley, originally from the state of Georgia, has been married to a Chinese/Vietnamese girl for nearly 56 years. They raised three children of their own as well as several nieces and nephews. Al retired at age 50 with 32 years of U.S. government service – nearly 4 years in the United States Air Force and over 28 years with the United States Department of State Foreign Service. He served seven years in Asia, seven years in South America, seven years in Africa, and way too many years in Washington, D.C.! In 1973 he was selected to be in the Advance Party that renewed diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China and served in Peking with his family until April 1975. After his retirement in 1988 the Rileys moved to Florida and in 1993 he joined the Chinese-owned Florida Splendid China Theme Park in Kissimmee – until it closed in 2003. In 1999 he connected with Stetson University in Deland, Florida, and ran their adult education China program for some 14 years. During that time he traveled to China 18 times either privately or escorting education tours.