'A rigorous and thought-provoking new book . . . deserves to be regarded as an authority, both for students of China's rise and for those who are concerned that the Middle East may become a focal point for a future superpower conflagration.' 'A balanced, perceptive and thought-provoking book that advances our understanding of the evolving relationship of China and the Middle East.' 'Reardon-Anderson has assembled the definitive edited volume on China-Middle East relations. Interdisciplinary, rigorous, and fusing the combined talents of its many illustrious contributors, it deserves to be read by a very wide range of scholars, diplomats, and foreign correspondents.' -- Christopher Davidson, Reader in Middle East Politics, Durham University, and author of 'Shadow Wars: The Secret Struggle for the Middle East' 'This book is a comprehensive study of China's strategic vision and policies. It is a valuable resource for academics and policy planners with an interest in China and the Muslim world.' -- The Muslim World Book Review 'Highly interesting . . . a sober and much needed contribution.' 'Insightful . . . unique and important.' 'The essays on the 'One Belt, One Road' initiative provide refreshingly detailed and experienced perspectives. . . . Most of the essays in The Red Star & the Crescent are written by China experts rather than Middle East experts, and the book is all the stronger for that. The Chinese perspective comes through clearly and there is plenty of detail.' 'A comprehensive overview of China's relations with an area which is much neglected but increasingly important to it - the Middle East. The merit of this work is the diversity of authors, from Chinese to regional to external perspectives - and the depth of their expertise.' -- Kerry Brown, Professor of Chinese Studies and Director, Lau China Institute, London School of Economics and Political Science