Reviewed by Rama Gaind.
By Jingjing Xue, Black Inc., $32.99.
If you’ve read Mao’s Last Dancer, then you’re in a for a treat with this inspiring true story of a world famous acrobat who left communist China to begin a new life in Australia.
It’s an orphan boy’s inspiring story of courage and determination in revolutionary China, who became an international circus star and a trainer of Chinese and Australian gold-winning acrobats.
Shanghai Acrobat is a story of hope and resoluteness, of overcoming hardships and finding a place to belong. Set in China from the early years of the Communist era through the turbulent period of the cultural revolution, and then in Australia. It has you hooked from the prelude. “In the ancient land of China there is a legend that, among all the animals who are born in this world, only humans cry”. The detail, narratives, pictures and the wonderfully expressive language makes you feel as if you’re right there with the author.
Jingjing’s rise from poverty to become an admired performer in China and beyond is a moving story. Xue was a star performer with the Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe. Considered one of China’s best acrobats, from 1961 to 1987 he performed around the world with the Shanghai Circus.
Xue was born in China in the 1950s, during one of the worst times in the reign of communist leader Mao Zedong, also known as Chairman Mao. History buffs will note the detail about the political tension and turmoil in China from the 1940s until the 1980s.
Xue’s success story – against all odds – of endurance and resolve will not only captivate, but reverberate feelings of being fortunate.
What years was Jingjing Xue considered to be one of China’s best acrobats? We have three copies of Shanghai Acrobat to give away. Entries should be sent to [email protected] by Monday, 24 May 2021. Names of the winners will be announced in Frank Cassidy’s PS-sssst…! column on 25 May 2021.
