Not since the sixties has the mind of one man been so critical to China’s political direction. In the wake of grumblings over lockdowns and the zero-Covid policy’s impact on the economy, rumors have swirled about a split between Li Keqiang and Xi Jinping. These are likely unfounded – there is little indication that Xi’s grip has loosened, and nor does there appear to be any credible alternative to his power, given the consolidation of clout and the network of patronage he has assembled. In the autumn he will almost certainly be selected for a third term as China’s leader, and continue to dominate Chinese politics. That is why our ‘One to Read’ this month is a study of how Xi rose to power, which charts his trajectory in a clear and readable primer. It is also worth noting that this month four new books came out in China that serve as hagiography, “vividly demonstrating Xi's conviction and his concern for the people,” according to state media. Whatever Xi’s offici