Quotations from Chairman Mao (Chinese: 毛主席语录; pinyin: Máo zhǔxí yǔlù), is a book of selected statements from speeches and writings by Mao Zedong, the former leader of Chinese Communist Party, published from 1964 to about 1976 and widely distributed during the Cultural Revolution. The most popular versions were printed in small sizes that could be easily carried and were bound in bright red covers, becoming commonly known in the West as The Little Red Book. The book is one of the most printed pieces of literature in history.

The book could be found almost anywhere during Mao’s time. Admirers of Mao could be found frequently holding it in their hands or when they took photos to show their loyalty to Mao. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, it became the most visible icon in mainland China. Its importance waned in the wake of Mao’s death. It has now become a piece of nostalgia, but it is still popular with collectors and can be purchased at shops or tourist attractions.

Source: China Daily