Mark Salzman

Mark Salzman is an American writer known for his works of fiction and non-fiction, including 'Iron & Silk' and 'The Soloist'. He often draws on his experiences living in China and his background in martial arts and classical music.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Iron & Silk

    This book is a memoir that recounts the experiences of an American teacher and martial artist who spends two years in China during the early 1980s. The narrative delves into the cultural exchanges and misunderstandings between East and West as the author teaches English and studies kung fu with master practitioners. Through a series of vignettes, the memoir paints a portrait of a China still recovering from the Cultural Revolution, exploring themes of connection, tradition, and the nuances of human relationships across a vast cultural divide. The author's journey is one of self-discovery, as he navigates the complexities of life in a foreign land, building friendships and gaining insights into the subtleties of Chinese culture and society.

    The 5323rd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Lost In Place

    Growing Up Absurd in Suburbia

    "Lost in Place" is a memoir that delves into the adolescent years of its author, capturing his earnest and often humorous quest for meaning and identity in the suburban setting of Connecticut during the 1970s. As a young boy obsessed with the idea of becoming a kung fu master, which leads him into various misadventures, the author navigates the complexities of growing up, from dealing with family dynamics to the challenges of school and the search for self-discovery. Through his journey, he explores themes of ambition, disillusionment, and the pursuit of personal enlightenment, all while trying to find his place in the world.

    The 12903rd Greatest Book of All Time