Mao's Last Dancer - Li Cunxin

Mao's Last Dancer
Li Cunxin
Viking


The sixth of seven boys, Li is born into a poor yet proud Chinese peasant family. At 11 he is selected by Madam Mao's men searching the countryside for children who can be developed into ballet dancers. Knowing nothing of the arts, Li leaves his small village and moves to the Beijing Dance Academy where he spends the next seven years perfecting his art. On a scholarship to Houston Li defects, greatly angering the Chinese government. Battling heartache, loneliness and guilt, Li rises to eventually become one of the most celebrated leading men in the world of ballet.

Peppered with Chinese parables, anecdotes and fables that add authenticity, Li retells his story with care, poise and balance. His love and respect for his parents throughout the book adds a touching note which I personally found particularly moving.

Full of grace, dignity and gravity, Mao's Last Dancer is an inspiring story of a remarkable man who risks everything to achieve his dream. 4 Stars