Asian American history is often overlooked in mainstream American education, but there are a wealth of books that can help readers gain a deeper understanding of this important facet of our country’s story. Here are 15 books that teach you about Asian American history:
1. “The Making of Asian America: A History” by Erika Lee – This comprehensive history of Asians in America spans from the 16th century to the present day, exploring the diverse experiences and contributions of Asian Americans.
2. “Asian Americans: The Movement and the Moment” by Steve Louie and Glenn Omatsu – This book highlights the social and political movements that have shaped Asian American history, from civil rights struggles to community organizing efforts.
3. “The Color of Success: Asian Americans and the Origins of the Model Minority” by Ellen D. Wu – Wu explores the origins of the “model minority” stereotype and its impact on Asian American identity and experiences.
4. “No-No Boy” by John Okada – This novel, originally published in 1957, tells the story of a Japanese American man who struggles to find his place in post-World War II America.
5. “America Is in the Heart: A Personal History” by Carlos Bulosan – This memoir offers a firsthand account of Filipino American life in the early 20th century, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of immigrant communities.
6. “The Sympathizer” by Viet Thanh Nguyen – This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel follows a Vietnamese American spy during the Vietnam War, exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and betrayal.
7. “Yellow: Race in America Beyond Black and White” by Frank Wu – Wu examines the unique challenges and experiences faced by Asian Americans in the broader context of race relations in America.
8. “Dare to Soar: A Gift from a Black Man to a White Boy” by David Suzuki – In this memoir, scientist and activist David Suzuki explores his Japanese Canadian heritage and the intersection of race and identity.
9. “The Buddha in the Attic” by Julie Otsuka – This novel follows the lives of Japanese picture brides who came to America in the early 20th century, offering a glimpse into the immigrant experience.
10. “Asian American Dreams: The Emergence of an American People” by Helen Zia – Zia traces the history of Asian Americans from their arrival in the U.S. to their struggles for equality and recognition.
11. “The Woman Warrior: Memoirs of a Girlhood Among Ghosts” by Maxine Hong Kingston – This groundbreaking memoir blends autobiography and mythology to explore the experiences of Chinese American women.
12. “Vietnamese Americans: Lessons in American History” by Jayne L. Werner and Luu-Nguyen Phan – This book provides an overview of Vietnamese American history, from the Vietnam War to resettlement and community building in the U.S.
13. “Strangers from a Different Shore: A History of Asian Americans” by Ronald Takaki – This classic work offers a comprehensive overview of Asian American history, covering a wide range of topics from immigration to discrimination.
14. “The Latehomecomer: A Hmong Family Memoir” by Kao Kalia Yang – This memoir tells the story of the author’s Hmong family’s journey from refugee camps in Thailand to a new life in America.
15. “Banana Boys” by Terry Woo – This novel follows a group of second-generation Chinese Canadian men as they navigate love, family, and identity in Toronto.
These books offer valuable insights into the diverse experiences and histories of Asian Americans, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of these communities. By reading and learning from these works, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of Asian American history and the contributions of Asian Americans to the fabric of American society.