Li Cunxin’s journey continues with the release of his latest book, which acts as a sequel to his acclaimed 2003 memoir, Mao’s Last Dancer. In this new installment, the celebrated Chinese Australian ballet dancer shares his reflections on the personal sacrifices made by his wife, his time as a stockbroker, and his accomplishments as the artistic director of the Queensland Ballet.
Some individuals lead such remarkable lives that one book simply cannot encapsulate their experiences. Li Cunxin is a prime example of this phenomenon, having penned two autobiographies. After the immense success of his first memoir, he thought his story was complete. However, life presented new challenges and opportunities that compelled him to write again.
“I actually had an agreement with Penguin Random House to write a follow-up initially focused on my brothers and friends in China, as well as the transformations within the country,” Cunxin revealed during a conversation from his Brisbane home. “But when I accepted the position at Queensland Ballet, my focus shifted entirely. I don’t think anyone anticipated that it would take 14 years to complete the sequel!”
