All you need to know to make your time in China successful! Touches on every area covered by the other books in this list.

Travel guide--not as comprehensive as LP but beautifully done.

Good introduction to modern Chinese society through humorous and poignant true tales.

A little book that is very practical for expats needing basic Mandarin skills to get around in China.

incredibly helpful if you want to start recognizing chinese characters

Insightful look at the Chinese people

A great way to increase your Chinese after you already have a solid base.

Make sure your phrasebook has pinyin, characters, and tones. Some don't do all three.

A fantastic idea; unfortunately, too focused on traditional characters, but helpful nonetheless.

A good guide if you're not yet in the country; once there, the expat magazines are a better source of info.