Description
Inscribed to the US Ambassador to China Leonard Woodcock, the first edition of Dawn Wakes in the East by Audrey Topping.
Oblong octavo, 162pp. Red cloth, title in gilt on spine, Chinese characters in gilt on front cover. Stated “First Edition” on copyright page. Solid text block, faint foxing to top edge, a near fine example. In the publisher’s dust jacket, price-clipped, shelf wear, short closed tear to top corner. Signed on the half-title: “To the Woodcocks – A memento of an eventful assignment in China – a particularly happy union for you in your new life together, and a reunion for me with things Chinese and exciting new vistas to explore. It’s been a most eventful period and I’ve enjoyed being a part of it. Fondly, Lois — Beijing May 1979.” Also signed on the title page “With best wishes and fond memories to Sharon / Love Audrey T.”
Leonard Woodcock (1911-2001) was the President of the United Auto Workers, the Chief of the US Liaison Office to the People’s Republic of China, and the first US Ambassador to China. Woodcock’s skills in negotiation from his time with the UAW made him a favorable selection to President Carter, who was looking to renew relations with China in the post-Vietnam world. During the Carter administration, Woodcock led the negotiations responsible for establishing full diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China in 1979. He would continue this role through 1981, ultimately serving both the Carter and Reagan administrations.
