Roots and Wings

Roots and Wings, co-written by Rabea Maria Glotz (a German living in China) and Tianwa (a Chinese living in Germany). Unlike dry intercultural manuals focused on business cards or gift etiquette, this book is not just a story of living abroad; it is a guide to building a "e;Third Culture"e; where East and West enrich rather than divide. It masterfully balances humor with deep respect.From the tranquil meadows of Bavaria to the bustling metropolises of Shenyang and Beijing, Rabea Maria Glotz s stories that transcends the typical "e;expat in China"e; guide. Transplanting her family herself, her husband, and four daughters to Northeast China, Glotz crafts a narrative that is far more than a cultural handbook; it is a deep dive into the soul of modern China through the eyes of a German mother. She explores the profound realities of family life; navigates the beautiful complexities of marriage; recounts the emotional journey of giving birth in a Chinese clinic, shattering stereotypes about medical care and revealing the high standard of support available. Furthermore, she dissects the high-pressure, high-efficiency Chinese education system compared to the German emphasis on childhood play, sparking a crucial dialogue on the well-being of the next generation. It also delves into the intricate dynamics of Chinese relationships, from filial piety and the "e;marriage market"e; to the intense loyalty in friendships, revealing that while our paths may differ Germans climbing straight to the summit while Chinese take the winding path our core desires for happiness, family, and security are universal.Unlock the secrets of bridging cultures with Tianwa s stories, it offers a rare, intimate glimpse into the life of a Chinese woman married to a German man, navigating the beautiful yet chaotic landscape of raising a family between two vastly different worlds. More than just a travelogue, it is a masterclass in cross-cultural living, filled with humor, insight, and profound reflections on what it truly means to belong to two cultures simultaneously.From the nervous "e;ugly daughter-in-law"e; meeting to the complexities of modern parenting and professional life, Tianwa invites readers into her home, her heart, and her dual identity. Whether you are an expatriate struggling to adapt, a manager seeking to understand international teams, or simply a lover of human stories, this book provides a mirror to our own cultural assumptions.Discover how the author's "e;Chinese ways"e; clash and harmonize with German precision:Food & Hospitality: Experience the awkwardness of separate plates versus the joy of shared dishes, the "e;Keqi"e; dance of politeness, and the culture shock of cold bread and warm soup.Marriage & Social Pressure: Navigate the high-stakes of the "e;marriage market,"e; the financial weight of "e;red envelopes,"e; and the contrasting Western and Chinese views on money in romance.Family Dynamics: Witness the touching evolution of relationships with in-laws, the intense love of a mother-in-law, and the contrasting parenting philosophies of German independence versus Chinese devotion.Work & Friendship: Learn the nuances of German "e;Genau"e; (precision) versus Chinese flexibility, the unwritten rules of gift-giving, and the unique definition of friendship and support in both societies.Perfect for:Expatriates and international families seeking relatable advice.Business professionals working in cross-cultural environments.Readers of memoirs and human interest stories.Anyone curious about the real lives of the Chinese in Germany and the Germans in China.Get your copy today and learn to see the world through two sets of eyes!