Chinese American Voices: From the Gold Rush to the Present (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780520243101)

Described by others as quaint and exotic, or as depraved and threatening, and, more recently, as successful and exemplary, the Chinese in America have rarely been asked to describe themselves in their own words. This superb anthology, a diverse and illuminating collection of primary documents and stories by Chinese Americans, provides an intimate and textured history of the Chinese in America from their arrival during the California Gold Rush to the present. Among the documents are letters, speeches, testimonies, oral histories, personal memoirs, poems, essays, and folksongs; many have never been published before or have been translated into English for the first time. They bring to life the diverse voices of immigrants and American-born; laborers, merchants, and professionals; ministers and students; housewives and prostitutes; and community leaders and activists. Together, they provide insight into immigration, work, family and social life, and the longstanding fight for equality and inclusion. Featuring photographs and extensive introductions to the documents written by three leading Chinese American scholars, this compelling volume offers a panoramic perspective on the Chinese American experience and opens new vistas on American social, cultural, and political history.

Author: Judy Yung
ISBN-10: 0520243102
ISBN-13: 9780520243101
Publisher: University of California Press
Language: English
Published: 03/20/2006
Pages: 486
Format: Paperback
Weight: 1.47lbs
Size: 9.02h x 5.96w x 1.16d

Review Citation(s):
Choice 10/01/2006 pg. 358