Mao

Jonathan Spence

This slim 205-page book published in 1999 of Mao by Jonathan Spence is a very concise biography.

It merely scratches the surface of a leader who lived a full life. Spanning the entire life of Mao, it is intended for the readers who can spare only a day at most.

No index is provided though we have a useful note on sources.

The strength of this biography is the emphasis on the family life of Mao and his relationships with his extended family and friends from his early life. Spence has provided intriguing details on how Mao helped them when they requested money or jobs. A more humane face of Mao emerges. (p 135 – 137).

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