Slum of the World Center: Chungking Mansions, Hong Kong

"Chungking Mansions," made famous by Director Wong Kar Wai's "Chungking Express," is situated in the vibrant city of Hong Kong, surrounded by luxury hotels and new shopping malls. Despite its rundown appearance, it serves as an affordable stopover for global backpackers and a vital trading hub for African and South Asian merchants. This book delves into the pivotal role it plays in Hong Kong and the world, exploring the intricate connections between its diverse residents and international trade. Gordon Mathews uncovers the building's significance as a microcosm of globalization, shedding light on its residents' lives and their resourcefulness in this multicultural enclave. The book has received accolades, including ranking second on the "Preface Bookstore Bestseller List" in 2013 and eighth in the "Humanities Category of the Commercial Press Bestseller List" in 2013, as well as the seventh "Hong Kong Book Award."