Niuniu observes a clash of cultures between the simple, traditional ways and the xin xin renlei - the "new" new generation. Beijing now features Starbucks on every corner, cell phones, ultra-thin models, and high fashion. Supporting Niuniu as she immerses herself into the new China are friends BeiBei, a successful entertainment agent whose unfaithful husband has made her distrust love; Lulu, a fashionable magazine editor who has stood by her married performance artist boyfriend for years; and CC, a fellow returnee who was bred by her parents to be a Chinese "princess."

Having originated from Wang’s weekly newspaper columns, the chapters are short and almost self-contained. This makes for a fast and fascinating read that cannot be pigeonholed. The People’s Republic of Desire is equal parts commentary on the ever changing Chinese culture and how it is increasingly shaped by Western influences and the story of four women who struggle for success, love and happiness - a universal theme.