The collection of photos in this book is simply amazing. Although the internet has made many hard-to-find photos of the Cultural Revolution more common, it is still a challenge to find them. With Li Zhensheng's "Red-Color News Soldier," we have 300 photos taken from the same region, Heilongjiang. They show mass rallies, executions, the Down to the Countryside movement, Red Guards, struggle sessions, and other facets of the Cultural Revolution.
These are Li's photographs when he was a photographer working for a state newspaper, where Li participated in the Cultural Revolution. Despite taking part in struggle sessions, he was eventually denounced himself, although he did not receive the harshest of punishments. We learn of this from the narrated text that introduces different sections of the book. In addition, there are very meticulous captions to help the reader make sense of what is happening.
Unfortunately, the book is very awkwardly designed. The written narrations go right up to the edge of the page, making them difficult to read. The cover is an awkward vinyl. Such rare and interesting material deserves better treatment.
- Amazon Business : For business-only pricing, quantity discounts and FREE Shipping. Register a free business account
