The Travels of a T-Shirt in the Global Economy: An Economist Examines the Markets, Power, and Politics of World Trade. New Preface and Epilogue with Updates on Economic Issues and Main Characters

The strongest tool in the novel, is choosing a T-shirt to drive the narrative which made it possible to learn about Texas Cotton, the Chinese hukou system, and African clothing markets all at once; the book flows entertainingly well while retaining pertinent facts and points. One area of improvement could have been a clearer stance on whether globalization is better or worse for the general well-being of the world. However, the thorough nature of exploring all the counter arguments and points makes for a compelling economic and political profile of a commodity that few people will ever think about. Keeping it as neutral as possible helps readers feel like learners and not indoctrinates. In the end though, I think it is pretty clear from the conclusion and epilogue that Pietra Rivoli seems to believe growing interdependence with more open communication would be a strength, not a weakness. In the conclusion as she meditates on her past experience as a global labor activist, she ponders Libanius’ words over trade as a source of bonding and sharing; although you can tell she may have her reservations about some injustices in the world due to globalization, she also sees the potential. Ultimately, I think she believes that a rising tide does not have to sink any boats as long as the process of globalization is handled ethically and gradually, with more consumer appreciation and education. The strongest tool in the novel, is choosing a T-shirt to drive the narrative which made it possible to learn about Texas Cotton, the Chinese hukou system, and African clothing markets all at once; the book flows entertainingly well while retaining pertinent facts and points. One area of improvement could have been a clearer stance on whether globalization is better or worse for the general well-being of the world. However, the thorough nature of exploring all the counter arguments and points makes for a compelling economic and political profile of a commodity that few people will ever think about. Keeping it as neutral as possible helps readers feel like learners and not indoctrinates. In the end though, I think it is pretty clear from the conclusion and epilogue that Pietra Rivoli seems to believe growing interdependence with more open communication would be a strength, not a weakness. In the conclusion as she meditates on her past experience as a global labor activist, she ponders Libanius’ words over trade as a source of bonding and sharing; although you can tell she may have her reservations about some injustices in the world due to globalization, she also sees the potential. Ultimately, I think she believes that a rising tide does not have to sink any boats as long as the process of globalization is handled ethically and gradually, with more consumer appreciation and education.

This book was amazing! I had to by this for an international economics class, and as such, was unsure of what it would be like. I mean, it was a book about t-shirts, what could possibly be so interesting, right? Well, as it turns out, a lot of things. You have no idea what kinds of crazy regulations, politics, social stigmas and drama can go into making a t-shirt. I think the most interesting thine was learning about the cotton industry in Texas and how the politics and innovation behind it makes Texas the number one cotton producer in the world. Considering the climate in the region where it's grown, it would seem highly unlikely for that to be true. But that;s where the science and innovation comes through. It's so fascinating. Being able to see just how complex making a shirt in the international market can be; from growing cotton to when you purchase and even what happens after you donate, shows (on a small scale), just how complicated the international economy is. This book is a wonderful read and recommend it for anyone who as any interest in the global economy.

I am not an economics person but I found this book to be very interesting and a really great read!

I had to read this book for a college class on international trade and I did not expect to enjoy this book. Academic books are normally very dry. But I actually really enjoyed this book. It was so interesting to learn about the lives of all these people across the world and how their lives connect. Who would have thought a book about international trade would keep me entertained for hours? I do recommend this books to whoever feels like they don't truly understand international trade, none of the concepts in here are overly academic in their language but its not dumbed down either which I appreciate.

An interesting read with some useful insights on market competition, or the lack thereof and on how national legislation and international commercial agreements are structured. I specifically enjoyed the author's advice to the "young woman on the steps at Georgetown University..." - full of realism, wisdom and hope for the future.

good read for global studies class

This book is very well written and layed out, and provides a quizzical perspective into the complex life of a simple T shirt. Thank you to the author for her circular approach of all those affected

Very instructing and informative . We read this with our book club .. at first I was not so sure about entire book .. then got into book and great historical writing ! Should be mandatory to read in high school . ThAnk you

Great book by rivoli. Easy read.

A super book on the complexity of modern business and trade. As usual China and the USA are winners. Long live free trade and capitalism.

Très bien