The Evolution of the Chinese Internet: Creative Visibility in the Digital Public by Shaohua Guo (review).

"The Evolution of the Chinese Internet: Creative Visibility in the Digital Public" by Shaohua Guo is a comprehensive exploration of the development of internet services and digital culture in China since the mid-1990s. The book examines the historical background of the Chinese internet, the evolution of internet platforms, and the transformation of cultural production and entertainment industry. It also discusses the rise of internet celebrities, the role of blogging platforms in expressing dissent, and the popularity of microblogging sites like Weibo and WeChat. The author emphasizes the interplay between technology, format, and content in shaping the Chinese digital culture. However, the book's title raises concerns about the increasing internet censorship in China and its disconnection from the outside world. The author also acknowledges the contributions of Chinese people overseas, particularly exchange students, in the early development of Chinese internet culture. Overall, the book provides valuable insights into the trajectory and proliferation of Chinese digital culture over the past few decades. [Extracted from the article]