The Genius of China is a wonderful piece of nonfiction writing that covers an immense amount of information. Divided into parts on different areas of innovation (agriculture, astronomy and cartography, engineering, domestic and industrial technology, medicine and health, mathematics, magnetism, the physical sciences, transportation and exploration, sound and music, and warfare), it can be used in the classroom in a variety of ways.
The organization of the book easily lends itself to jigsaw activities and can be easily worked into an already full curriculum as a supplement. The reading is straightforward, yet allows for students make inferences and apply their knowledge.
The book is accessible enough for middle school students. If it is being used to draw connections to more advanced high school content, it could also be a useful resource for high school students as well.