This book introduces students to the economies of east Asia from a development perspective. It examines the remarkable growth in the east Asian economies from the mid-sixties until the 1997 crisis, which shook confidence in the region and led to a lull in the unprecedented growth. This book examines the reactions from all the main countries in east and southeast Asia. Approaching the impact from a thematic viewpoint, this book concentrates on policies and issues, including some of the most contemporary developments such as the gender gap, digital divide and globalization.