This yearbook aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the People's Liberation Army's affairs during the pivotal years of 1988-1989. Richard H. Yang, an established scholar in Asian political and military studies, compiles data and analysis from various sources to present a detailed account of the PLA's structure, doctrine, and activities during this period. The work focuses on the internal dynamics and external relations of the PLA as China navigated significant political and economic changes.

This yearbook is a specialized reference work, likely intended for academics, policymakers, and researchers focused on Chinese military and political history. Its value lies in its detailed compilation of information specific to a critical two-year period. The work's strength is its focus on factual data and analytical presentation, offering a resource for understanding the PLA's state and trajectory at a significant juncture in modern Chinese history.