Prefaced by list of Chinese Dynasties & republics & also line-drawn map of Sian area & Chungnan Mountains; b/w. photo's. throughout taken by Steven R. Johnson & the author; Throughout Chinese history, hermits have always been the most respected men and women of society. Living beyond the city walls, in the mountains, they followed the Buddhist/Taoist tradition of solitary contemplation. The last few decades. however, have seen immense political and social changes in the country. After the long years of revolution, war and oppression, could hermits still exist in the China of today? To find out, Bill Porter, a distinguished writer and translator, undertook an incredible and: at times, arduous journey amongst the Chungnan Mountains. Here, he discovered this ancient form of religious asceticism does indeed continue and was able to listen to the life histories and wisdom of its practitioners. The result is a fascinating blend of Eastern Philosophy, Chinese current affairs and superb photographs, as well as personal observations of these isolated people who can 'talk to heaven'.