Off the Wall - China's Customs, Curiosities & Surprising Oddities

After eleven years teaching in China, David Ball found himself immersed in a nation of ancient rituals, modern chaos, and unforgettable contradictions — where the bizarre is normal, tradition still has teeth, and everyday life can turn into an adventure without warning. In Off the Wall, Ball serves up a sharp, funny, and eye-opening look at life in China, from ghost marriages and lucky charms to social etiquette, festival frenzy, and the hidden logic behind a culture that often leaves outsiders scratching their heads. Written with wit, warmth, and a healthy dose of astonishment, this is a memoir for curious travelers, armchair explorers, and anyone who loves stories that reveal how strange — and how deeply human — the world can be. If you've ever wanted to step beyond the tourist trail and into the real China, this is your invitation.