COVER

The Liberation of Jet Li (Asia / Jet Li)

How movie star Jet Li decided to turn his back on the cameras and spend time helping the people and country he loves

UNITED STATES

Can She Save America's Schools? (Education)

Teachers hate her. Principals are scared of her. How Michelle Rhee became the most revolutionary — and polarizing — force in American education

Why He Just Can't Wait (The Economy)

Taking control of economic policy, Obama has assembled a team charged with preventing a depression. Inside their race against time

ASIA

No Way Out

The political standoff in Thailand between the government and protesters intensifies, paralyzing a nation

Postcard: Dongxiaokou

Before the economic crisis, this village north of Beijing stood at the top of the scrap heap. How a recycling hub is turning into a giant junkyard

WORLD

LIFE

O Christmas Tree (Going Green)

If you want to be as eco-savvy as possible this holiday season, get a real tree — then replant it

ESSAY

A Nation Apart

Can China's unique hybrid economy save it from the global financial crisis?

GLOBAL ADVISER

Champagne's Bubbly Personalities (Grapevine)

Stock markets plunge, house values slide, but top Champagne prices — and consumption rates — go from strength to strength

LETTERS