"This accessible and informative book demonstrates Kerry Browns open-minded evaluation of Mao and his extensive knowledge of him." - Mobo Gao, Adelaide University "Kerry Brown provides a wonderfully insightful analysis of one of the most influential and complex figures of the twentieth century, Mao Zedong. Brown weaves together Maos life with the unfolding drama of the Chinese communist movement. He highlights the influence of Chinese history and culture on Maos evolution of MarxismMarxist Daoism. The book serves as an excellent introduction to the man, the revolution that he led, and its global ramifications." - Tony Saich, Harvard Kennedy School, author of From Rebel to Ruler: One Hundred Years of the Chinese Communist Party "Using a wide range of scholarly sources, Kerry Brown describes how Mao Zedong still influences China today. Fifty years after his death, some of the legends are fading but his ruthless rise to power and consistent nationalism continue to dominate. This clear and very readable account sets out his extraordinary life and personality and the persistence of his ideas." - Frances Wood, Former Curator of Chinese Collections, British Library
