"We could not think of a more sincere, unique and exciting story to tell, using great photographs and great writing to reveal his story not just in China, but internationally," he said.

Yao said that when he first saw an Opus publication he thought it was like a comic book. But as he turned the pages he realized the book was something people should take seriously.

"Although we live in a digital age, a photo can capture and keep every precious moment forever and will not fade with time," he said.

Yao signed a signature page that will be placed in copy No 1 of Yao Ming Opus. Opus will auction that copy next year and donate the proceeds to the Yao Foundation.

About the broadcaster:

Nelly Min is an editor at China Daily with more than 10 years of experience as a newspaper editor and photographer. She has worked at major newspapers in the U.S., including the Los Angeles Times and the Detroit Free Press. She is also fluent in Korean.

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