One in a series of booklets whose purpose is to stimulate greater interest in and more effective understanding of world affairs among American citizens, this six-chapter booklet traces the development toward improved relations between China and the United States. The chapters include: "Toward a New Consensus: 1978-1986"; "Strategic Triangle: The Impact of Sino-Soviet Relations"; "The Taiwan Issue"; "Economic Relations"; "China's Reform Process"; and "The Future of the Relationship." The "Talking It Over" section offers questions for students and discussion groups. A suggested reading list for classroom or community use concludes the booklet. (TRS)