I suspect that you're trying to charge from the computer via a USB cable, Linda. Seems to me that seldom works with the Sony (no matter what your battery meter claims). You'll need a full charge via an ARC wall plug charger direct to the device. You can get one for a few dollars on the net with a universal adapter that will work in China. I got mine -- designed specifically for Sony PRS -- from
http://www.gomadic.com nine months ago and haven't had a single problem since.