Mao's Last Dancer (book)
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 Cover of Mao's Last Dancer (Young Reader's Edition) | |
| Author | Li Cunxin |
|---|---|
| Language | English |
| Genre | Memoir |
| Publisher | Penguin Books Australia |
Publication date | 2003 |
| Publication place | Australia |
| Media type | Print (Paperback & Hardback) |
| Pages | 445 pp |
| ISBN | 0-14-330164-0 |
| OCLC | 156327916 |
Mao's Last Dancer is a memoir written by Chinese-Australian ballet dancer and author Li Cunxin and first published in 2003.[1][2] It recounts his journey from a young, impoverished village boy destined to labor in the fields of China to a world-famous professional dancer.
- Li Cunxin
- The narrator of the memoir, who grew up in a destitute rural household in China, was selected by the Chinese Communist Party to become a ballet dancer trainee in Madame Mao's Beijing Dance Academy when he was eleven. Later, he got a chance to study abroad in America as an exchange student. After struggling hard, he finally decided not to go back to China, following his destiny of freedom instead
- Elizabeth Mackey
- Li Cunxin's ex-wife. She met Li Cunxin in the summer at the Houston Ballet and started a secret relationship with him and later she married him when he decided not to go back to China. Although they got divorced eventually, she gave Li the opportunity to stay in America.
- Niang
- Li Cunxin's mother. She was a rural Chinese woman, as well as a loving mother. In Li's life, she was his impetus, driving him forward while he was in adverse circumstances. She was what gave Li the courage and strength to continue ballet. She was a very important part of Li's life.
- Ben Stevenson
- One of the leaders of the Houston Ballet Association, as well as Li Cunxin's American dancing guide and host family. He was very nice, and gave much helpful advice to Li.
- Dia
- Li Cunxin's father. He was a Chinese farmer who was characterized with honesty and tolerance.
- Teacher Xiao
- One of Li Cunxin's teachers. He is inspirational to Li Cunxin and has helped him face many of his challenges during his ballet career in Beijing.
