Mao Zedong
by Jonathan D. Spence
Buy book: $9.88

This intimate portrait of Mao Zedong, one of the most formidable and elusive rulers in modern history, introduces the essential background about the Chinese leader, including his relations with family, friends, and confidential assistants, as well as his youthful writings, poems, letters, and drafts of speeches.

Just finished reading two books by Jan Wong, Red China Blues and Beijing Confidential - covering the post Mao Zedong era, so I found it very interesting. I was curious to know his background.

Best I've read since completing (several times) Red Star Over China, a study of Mao as he moved his revolution across China. This book, Mao Zedong looks like a really "worth while reading" book.
Also thanks for making reference to Spence's other writings on China.

P.S. Was in China during the trial of the Big 4, 1980.