Fequently Asked Questions

What motivated you to write "Letters from China?"

One of my main motivations was to fulfill a promise I made to my students to bring their letters back to America and publish them. They wrote these letters as part of a class assignment, which you'll read about in my book. In addition, I wanted to share my positive experiences and memories of China, in hopes that I might entice and motivate others to teach there. My ultimate ambition is to foster an understanding of different cultures; and to promote world peace and harmony. A lofty dream - but nothing worthwhile starts or happens without dreams.

How can I obtain a copy of your book?

My book, "Letters from China," is now available via this Web site. The book isn't available in major bookstores yet.

Are you available for book signings?

Yes, I welcome and appreciate opportunities to do book signings just about anywhere. I enjoy chatting with people about my writing and experiences in China.

Are you available as a guest speaker on China?

Absolutely! I am motivated to spread my message about China at colleges, universities and businesses around the country. Of particular interest to me are companies that conduct business with China; and schools that have Chinese exchange and language programs.

Would you be willing to talk to me about teaching in China?

Of course! Just send me your name and phone number via email and let me know if you would like to meet in person, talk on the phone, or correspond via email. Whether you have one or one hundred questions, I'd love to share my ideas and tips for teaching in China.

Are you going to continue teaching English in China?

Yes, I hope teaching in China becomes a way of life for me. Whether through volunteer or staff assignments, my plan is to continue teaching in China and visiting my friends there whenever feasible.

Will you be writing more books?

Yes, writing is in my blood. I plan to write another book that offers a more in-depth perspective about the American-Chinese relationship and the future of China in the "New World" as I call it. Additionally, there are books on other topics I am considering. I also enjoy writing poetry.

Can I use the pictures of China you have on your Web site?

Yes, feel free to download pictures in the album section of my Web site. If you need something you cannot find there, email me. I have hundreds of pictures from my travels to China and am happy to share them. Should you use one of my photos in either electronic or print media, I would appreciate attribution.

How can I share feedback on my experiences or ideas I have about your book?

As part of my Web site, I have established a blog. You can either click on the blog icon in the upper right-hand corner of my Web site or go to: DeanWinkels.com/blog.

What advice do you have for someone interested in going to China?

It depends on where and why you are going. If on a tour, you will most likely stay at nice hotels and travel to the more developed areas of China. So, you can prepare as you would for most other international trips.

If you're going to China to teach or travel on your own - depending on your previous travel experience – you should be prepared for a bit of a culture shock. For example, toilets are quite different than those in the West!

Most young people can speak some English ... so if you need to ask directions etc., ask a younger person and speak slowly and respectfully.

Be flexible. Your schedule or plans can change without a moment's notice.

Be courteous to the people. I found the people to be very humble, but also very proud.

More information and tips are included in my book.

What attracts you so much to China?

The first thing that always comes to my mind is the people. I found most of the people I met to be so welcoming, generous, kind, and peace-loving.

Being in a country that's developing faster than any country in recorded history creates an environment of excitement and opportunity; you feel and experience that just by walking the streets. And speaking of walking the streets ... I walked the streets of China at all times of the day and night; and sometimes in places many people would consider "slums." However, I never once felt threatened, even though I was often walking alone.

Thanks for your interest. Depending on the questions I receive from my readers and others, I will update this section of my site as appropriate.