Ming, Yao, with Ric Bucher. Yao: A Life in Two Worlds.

MING, YAO, with Ric Bucher. Yao; a life in two worlds. Hyperion, Miramax. 288p. illus. c2004. 140135983-3. $12.95. SA

An intriguing chronicle of a young man's journey from China to the National Basketball League. Yao's narrative, as told to Ric Bucher, noted ESPN sportswriter and commentator, is peppered with his insights into everything from racism to learning to drive in America to his views on the wild life that many of his fellow NBA players lead. (Yao still lives with his parents.) The autobiography is interspersed with commentary from significant people in Yao Ming's life. This structure adds interest and provides a more complete backdrop to the history of Yao's journey to the NBA as well as to his personal life. Most importantly, the reader gains a great deal of respect for his character. Yao comments on the fear of failure that is pervasive in Chinese culture and how he has worked to overcome it in himself; he hopes to model that for other Chinese. Yet, he is proud to be Chinese and feels a strong sense of duty to represent his country with honor by his presence in the NBA and his annum return to China's national team.

The long sections of contract negotiations and the workings of the NBA draft may prove dull to readers not interested in basketball, but anyone interested in learning about Chinese culture as it has evolved in recent times will be drawn into Yao's life story. Lorie Paldino, retired English Teacher, Grafton, MA

S--Recommended for senior high school students.

A--Recommended for advanced students and adults. This code will help librarians and teachers working in high schools where there are honors and advanced placement students. This also will help extend KLIATT's usefulness in public libraries.