Published by Chatto & Windus, London, 1959 (first edition).
Octavo hardcover in red cloth with black spine lettering and a small junk illustration. 254 pages plus photographic plates, including the frontispiece; drawings by the author throughout; pictorial map endpapers. Original illustrated pink dust jacket, also designed by the author.
Worcester recalls his years surveying rivers for the Chinese Maritime Customs, exploring traditional junks and the lives of their crews and fishing communities. His account combines nautical observation and Chinese customs with adventures involving bandits, war and captivity.