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Never Grow Up

by Jackie with Zhu Mo Chan
Gallery: S. & S. Dec. 2018. 352p. tr. from Chinese by Jeremy Tiang. ISBN 9781982107215. $26; pap. ISBN 9781982115616. $18; ebk. ISBN 9781982107239. BIOG
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Chan, an international star known for doing his own stunts, recounts his life, beginning with his intense martial arts education at China Drama Academy. He faced difficulties early on, including being told that he wasn't attractive enough to star as the lead and learning English for U.S. roles. Film buffs and anthropologists may be interested in Chan's analysis of the cultural differences between Hong Kong and Hollywood movie sets. His message is positive and meant to inspire. While this is a quick, conversational read, it's longer than it needs to be. The memoir presents Chan's experiences in chronological order but lacks a strong narrative thread.
VERDICT For those curious about the action film industries in China and America from the mid-1970s to the present, as well as fans of Jackie Chan.—Emily Butler, Deerfield Academy, MA
Reviewed by Emily Butler , Nov 15, 2018
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