Li Cunxin, from a desperately poor northern Chinese province, is chosen at age 11 from millions of youth to attend Madame Mao's Beijing Dance Academy during the Cultural Revolution. Though very difficult, Li persists and his training pays off when he is chosen to travel to America to dance. America is so much more than he expects, that he decides to defect. Eventually his parents are able to come and watch him dance. Told by Li, this offers a great insight into Chinese culture and an individual's determination. There's plenty of excitement, too. This young reader's edition is well-edited and has plenty of detail for Gr. 6-9. Hardback
