The Man Who Stayed Behind

Rittenberg's memoir offers a unique perspective on recent Chinese history as seen through the eyes of an American who joined Mao Zedong's Chinese Communist Party in 1943.

Born in South Carolina, Rittenberg was appalled by the conditions he found in China and decided to stay and fight for the revolution.

He befriended Zhou Enlai, debated with Mao, and played a role in the '60s Cultural Revolution.

Despite spending 16 years in prison, Rittenberg remained loyal to his beliefs and his "sacred revolutionary organization." Coauthored with Wall Street Journal reporter Bennett, this book provides close-ups of recent Chinese history as it was made.

With photos and an author tour, this memoir is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of China and the experiences of those who lived through it.