“The Tragic Kingdom, or; Prisoner in a Chinese Theme Park”, is a behind-the-scenes look into the field of design and build in China. The book is a profile of the personalities, culture, and psychology of the world’s most massive looming superpower as seen through the eyes of an ex-pat American . I have lived and worked in China for over ten years, competing within their system and making my way as everything from a freelance artist in small operations to a senior designer for large corporations. I have witnessed a formidable decade in which China has commanded a modern presence on the world stage and have participated in the planning, designing, and building of mega-theme parks in Beijing, world-class aquariums in Shanghai, gigantic malls in the Pearl Delta, resorts in Tibet, and panda relocation projects in the foothills of the Himalayas.
I have discovered that the struggle to earn a living and attain a voice in a land and culture so ultimately foreign to my own has forced me to embrace new avenues of perception because without them I never would have survived, let alone thrived, in such an alien landscape.
The stories and themes found in The Tragic Kingdom spring from one man’s journey. At the same time I believe they disclose truths about a globalization that eventually will impact every economy, lifestyle, and person on the planet.

Great questions. I passed them along to Jenny to have her respond and this is what she had to say:

Hi, Robert:

I am glad to hear from you. I am thrilled that you like this one. Kent is marvelous! Thank you for the great questions. I am happy to give you my two cents with all honesty – the only way I know how to communicate

First of all, Let’s decipher your self descriptions. You are an African-American businessman. I take the liberty to put your descriptors in the following order of importance: You are a MAN in BUSINESS who comes from AMERICA with AFRICAN heritage. Here comes my suggestions:

1. As a man, what do you love to do the most and what is your goal in life? How do you assess yourself (please, be honest)? Is there anything you are crazy about and good at which also brings value to others? Is China the best place for you to do “this thing” ?
2. As a businessman, can you turn this “thing” above to a good business? Or, can you do “this thing” in your current job?
3. As an American businessman, can you draw any experience or resources from US to help you succeed with “this thing” in China?
4. As an African American businessman, can you leverage any of your uniqueness or heritage to get “this thing” easier or quicker?

Benefits of being an African-American here:

- People will always remember you. We have 1.3 billion people here. It is a great advantage to catch others’ attention right away and have them still remember you when you call six months later. I am a Chinese female who is six feet tall. I can not NOT draw attention in a room. Being a minority is good. Take advantage of that.
- Personally, I think most African-Americans consider themselves as under dogs in business world. This is very good attitude. Many Americans come to China and fail because they are too arrogant to listen and to ask for help, but that’s what you are doing now and its great! Chinese love to ignore those arrogant ones. If you like the approach of being humble, you are already ahead of many Caucasians I know

Obstacles of being an African-American here:

- Chinese people do no know much about African Americans. Most of Chinese assume you are only good at sports and music, but not in business. Therefore, they may not take you seriously at the beginning. You can easily turn this liability to asset. People will always remember/like those who exceed their expectations. When you conduct yourself with professionalism (show up on time, dress up nicely, always keep your promises, sincerely care about your customers/partners, etc.), you will be their friends for life.
- Some Chinese people think African Americans are not hardworking. Again, you can easily prove them wrong.

All the above are some very general statements. I am glad that you want to do business in China. There are so many opportunities here. But, the only relevant question is “What is your opportunity in China, and how do you grab it?” I’d encourage you to not to worry about the “African American” part, but put more emphasis on “businessman” and “China”. Consider yourself an assembler, how can you best put your resources together to take advantage of what China can offer you.

Hope this helps.

Jenny

I loved the line: Made in China, upgraded in the US and refurbished in China. HA HA HA HA!

Also makes me want to study Chinese more. more. more.

You guys mention several time about being “caucasian-American” working in or wanting to work in China. I was wondering if you guys can give some insights on what it’s like if a person is “non-caucasian American” in general.

… And maybe, to be more exact, what if you’re an African-American wanting to work or do business in China? What are the obstacles and/or benefits?

Please don’t get me wrong, I’m not looking to put a “racist moniker” on you guys, or instigate some sort of racial divide– nothing like that at all!! As, I said, I really love your podcasts!!!

But, honestly, in your opinion or experience — what can an African American businessman or entrepreneur expect or actually face in wanting to work or do business in China?

… Again, please be honest.