'Anyone interested in this unique description of Manchu-Chinese warfare viewed through the eyes of a participant should read it: there is much here to learn and much that will entertain in the process.' - Denis Sinor, Journal of Asian History, 41/1, 2007
'Zengeo's diary and Di Cosmo's translation are a very precious contribution to "inside Manchu history" and - which should be underlined - to Manchu autochtonous literature... Though the problem of Manchu "sinicization" is far from being solved, the book under review is indeed a fine contribution to such a complicated issue.' - Giovanni Stary, Central Asiatic Journal, 51/2, 2007