During the Song (960-1279), all educated Chinese men traveled frequently, journeying long distances to attend school and take civil service examinations. They crisscrossed the country to assume government posts, report back to the capital, and return home between assignments and to attend to family matters. Based on a wide array of texts, Transformative Journeys analyzes the impact of travel on this group of elite men and the places they visited. In the first part of the book, Cong Ellen Zhang considers the practical aspects of travel during the Song in the context of state mobilization of and assistance to government travelers, including the infrastructure of waterways and highways, the bureaucratic procedures entailed in official travel, and the means of transport and types of lodging. The second part of the book focuses on elite activities on the road, especially the elaborate farewell banquets, welcoming ceremonies, and visits to famous places. Zhang argues convincingly that abundant travel experience became integral to Song elite identity and status, greatly strengthening the social and cultural coherence of the practitioners. In promoting their experience of traveling across a large empire, Song elite men firmly established their position as the country’s political, social, and cultural leaders. The literary compositions and physical traces they left behind also formed an overlapping web of collective memories, continually enhancing local pride and defining the place of various localities in the cultural geography of the country. Transformative Journeys sheds new light on the nature of Chinese literati, their dominance of culture and society, and China’s social and cultural integration. Those interested in premodern China and travel literature will find a wealth of material previously unavailable to Western readers.

During the Song (960-1279), all educated Chinese men traveled frequently, journeying long distances to attend school and take civil service examinations. They crisscrossed the country to assume government posts, report back to the capital, and return home between assignments and to attend to family matters. Based on a wide array of texts, Transformative Journeys analyzes the impact of travel on this group of elite men and the places they visited. In the first part of the book, Cong Ellen Zhang considers the practical aspects of travel during the Song in the context of state mobilization of and assistance to government travelers, including the infrastructure of waterways and highways, the bureaucratic procedures entailed in official travel, and the means of transport and types of lodging. The second part of the book focuses on elite activities on the road, especially the elaborate farewell banquets, welcoming ceremonies, and visits to famous places. Zhang argues convincingly that abundant travel experience became integral to Song elite identity and status, greatly strengthening the social and cultural coherence of the practitioners. In promoting their experience of traveling across a large empire, Song elite men firmly established their position as the country’s political, social, and cultural leaders. The literary compositions and physical traces they left behind also formed an overlapping web of collective memories, continually enhancing local pride and defining the place of various localities in the cultural geography of the country. Transformative Journeys sheds new light on the nature of Chinese literati, their dominance of culture and society, and China’s social and cultural integration. Those interested in premodern China and travel literature will find a wealth of material previously unavailable to Western readers.

The books that we read, whether travel-focused or not, may influence the way in which we understand the process or experience of travel. This multidisciplinary work provides a critical analysis of the inspirational and transformational role that books play in travel imaginings. Does reading a book encourage us to think of travel as exotic, adventurous, transformative, dangerous or educative? Do different genres of books influence a reader's view of travel in multifarious ways? These questions are explored through a literary analysis of an eclectic selection of books spanning the period from the eighteenth century to the present day. Genres covered include historical fiction, children's books, westerns, science-fiction and crime fiction.

Embark on a transformative adventure around the globe with "Wanderlust Wonders". This guidebook is your key to unlocking unique and memorable travel experiences during festive seasons. From the snowy mountains of Switzerland to the colorful markets of Mexico, this book will inspire you to discover the magic of holiday travel like never before. Through captivating stories and insider tips, you will learn how to immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of each destination. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of city lights or the serene beauty of nature, "Wanderlust Wondersoffers a variety of travel opportunities to suit every taste and style. Experience the joy of Christmas in Europe, the vibrancy of Diwali in India, or the excitement of Carnival in Brazil. With detailed itineraries and helpful suggestions, this book provides a roadmap for maximizing your holiday adventures. Discover hidden gems off the beaten path, indulge in local cuisine, and join in traditional celebrations to fully embrace the spirit of each season. Say goodbye to typical tourist traps and hello to authentic cultural exchanges that will leave you with cherished memories for a lifetime. Let "Wanderlust Wondersbe your guide to exploring the world during festive times. The magic of holiday travel awaits, so pack your bags, open your heart, and get ready for unforgettable experiences in every corner of the globe.

Like a beautiful diamond, your truth is multi-faceted, with dazzling aspects of authenticity always waiting to shine forth. Embracing each facet of your ever-unfolding truth can be scary and challenging. But the joys of doing so far outweigh the heartache of living a safe, but inauthentic life. Author Gabrielle Claiborne knows. From the outside, it looked like she had it all: beautiful family, high-power career, church and community respect. But inside, she was living a life of turmoil. Overcoming four decades of fear and shame, Gabrielle risked everything and leaped into the unknown to embrace a key aspect of her truth, that she is a transgender woman. In this inspiring "memoir meets self-help" book this successful business owner, TEDx speaker and nationally recognized LGBTQ leader shares her riveting story of losing one life and discovering another. As she recounts her joys and struggles, with humor and vulnerability, Gabrielle graciously weaves insights about living authentically with invitations for readers to embrace new facets of their own unique truths--whatever those look like for them.

In this book Veteran disciplemakers Rick Dunn and Jana Sundene offer concrete guidance for those who shepherd and care for emerging adults, emphasizing relational rhythms of discernment, intentionality and reflection to meet emerging adults where they are at and then to walk with them further into the Christlife.

Twenty-one authentic, inspirational transformational journeys that move beyond pain and despair and into triumph, health, healing, and purpose. Stories that will inspire, motivate and empower every reader.