Lang Lang started learning to play the piano when he was three years old in Shenyang, China. Today he is one of the world’s most outstanding pianists. In this engrossing life story, adapted by Michael French, Lang Lang not only recounts the difficult, often thrilling, events of his early days, but also shares his perspective on his rapidly changing homeland. He thoughtfully explores the differences between East and West, especially in the realm of classical music and cultural life. Shining through his rags-to-riches story of a child prodigy who came of age as a renowned musician, Lang Lang’s positive spirit, his dynamic personality, and his enduring passion for music will inspire listeners of all ages.
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"This was an easy and enjoyable read. I can't help but wonder if all the sacrifice and time he spent (especially as a YOUNG child) are worth it. I will never know...I'll never spend as much time, nor be able to play as well."
— Analisa (4 out of 5 stars)
" Wow...I'm amazed of what he had to go through to get to where he's at. Very inspiring! I actually saw him perform live at the San Francisco Davis Symphony Hall last December. "
— Phyllis, 1/26/2013" A good book about hard work. In particular, the different form competition takes in America vs. China was pretty interesting. And the physical-heaviness-to-worth-carrying-around ratio was right on. "
— Liz, 3/24/2012" omg. i really enjoyed this book. it was amazing. "
— Mary, 12/27/2011" Picked this up on the $1 shelf. An interesting read for those interested in Chinese culture and parenting. He provides a view that's heartbreaking at times. I need to check into the real world of classical music and see how he's doing now :-). "
— Judy, 8/29/2011" Engrossing autobiography of the world-famous Chinese pianist, Lang Lang. Good middle school read. "
— Dutchbaby, 5/17/2011" AFter reading Battle Hymn of Mother Tiger, this one was mild. And in Lang Lang's case it was a Father Tiger. Interesting story, but I just have to wonder about all those pianists out there who practice hours and hours and aren't winners of the competitions. "
— Cherlyn, 4/28/2011" AFter reading Battle Hymn of Mother Tiger, this one was mild. And in Lang Lang's case it was a Father Tiger. Interesting story, but I just have to wonder about all those pianists out there who practice hours and hours and aren't winners of the competitions. "
— Cherlyn, 2/25/2011" A good book about hard work. In particular, the different form competition takes in America vs. China was pretty interesting. And the physical-heaviness-to-worth-carrying-around ratio was right on. "
— Liz, 9/26/2010" Wow...I'm amazed of what he had to go through to get to where he's at. Very inspiring! I actually saw him perform live at the San Francisco Davis Symphony Hall last December. "
— Phyllis, 6/19/2009Lang Lang was born in 1982 in Shenyang, China. A professional pianist who started playing the piano at age three, Lang has played with the leading orchestras in all of the major concert halls throughout the world, and in 2011 played for the White House State Dinner.