This is a particularly readable account of European migration and influence that prompts the development of a broader perspective to the development of strategic thinking.  It has been said that an educated person knows everything about something, and something about everything.  I think this very much applies to the development of executive thinking, and by extension the development of the well-rounded executive.  

We are now almost a quarter through the 'Asian Century' and the well-rounded executive will benefit from a working knowledge of dynamics in this region. It gives the interested reader an introduction and awareness of the geostrategic importance of the Mallaca Straight and South China Sea, and why Burma and Oman matter.   Kaplan also introduces the issues that make Indonesia such a vital player to our north and how this relates to contemporary challenges posed by an assertive China. 

Kaplan writes beautifully and follows the path of the early Portuguese explorer, Vasco de Gama, to highlight the importance of key regions, trading routes and port cities on his journey to India. Ultimately, that the trade winds and sailing ships of the day resulted in Europeans colonising or settling in this part of the world.  Whatever conclusions you draw regarding colonisation and European settlement in Southeast Asia is a matter for your own analysis. 

Link to Amazon Monsoon Robert D. Kaplan

Link to strategic thinking

Kaplan's book assists in developing a broader perspective which is a key tenet of strategic thinking. 

Next reading

Learning to Think Strategically by Julia Sloane.