Welcome to the Books Wire — our monthly page bringing you a smorgasbord of essential new reads on China. At the start of each month, we will feature a list of recommendations, including one book to put at the top of your list (“The One to Read”), as well as other new or upcoming releases (“The Shortlist”) and a sprinkling of gems from last year (“In Case You Missed It”). We all know there are too many books about China. Some are birds’-eye views – the ones with red-and-gold cover designs, dragon illustrations and big picture theses on how China is changing the world. Others are on-the-ground reportage, academic takes on important questions or critical historical context. All have their value, and we’re here to sift through the pile to pick out the diamonds, with an interest in business and the economy but a wide remit and eclectic fare. Read them, disagree with them or just remember the titles for dinner party conversation – however you use our list, the Books