Mao's Last Dancer
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4.4 • 25 Ratings
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- £5.99
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- £5.99
Publisher Description
Raised in a desperately poor village during the height of China's Cultural Revolution, Li Cunxin's childhood revolved around the commune, his family and Chairman Mao's Little Red Book.
Until, that is, Madame Mao's cultural delegates came in search of young peasants to study ballet at the academy in Beijing and he was thrust into a completely unfamiliar world.
When a trip to Texas as part of a rare cultural exchange opened his eyes to life and love beyond China's borders, he defected to the United States in an extraordinary and dramatic tale of Cold War intrigue.
Told in his own distinctive voice, this is Li's inspirational story of how he came to be Mao's last dancer, and one of the world's greatest ballet dancers.
Customer Reviews
Maos last dancer
This is a fascinating account of a young boys life under chairman Maos rule. I found the book easy to read and could feel the oppression the people had to endure at this time in Chinas history. The sheer dedication to achieve being the best at what you live for and the sacrifice made to achieve this is remarkable. I could feel the joy he felt when his parents were allowed to make the journey to America to see him after six long years apart. The story is well written and I would highly recommend this book.
Awesomest book ever
This is the best book i have ever read, thought-provoking and all that. It was surprisingly very interestingn and I have read it over and over again. Strongly recommended!!!