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The Making of Asian America: A History

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2015

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Book Brief

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Erika Lee

The Making of Asian America

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

560

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 19th-21st centuries

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1330L

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Super Short Summary

The Making of Asian America by Erika Lee explores the experiences of various Asian communities in the Americas from the 16th to early 21st centuries, using an intersectional approach to discuss race, ethnicity, sex, gender, and class. Lee examines early Asian immigration influenced by imperialism, the experiences of Asian Americans during significant historical events like World War II and the Cold War, and the evolving Asian American identity in the 21st century. The narrative combines social and legal history, colonialism, and individual biographies to illustrate themes of societal prejudice and discrimination as well as resilience and dignity. The book addresses racism, discrimination, and occasional acts of racially motivated violence.

Informative

Contemplative

Emotional

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.5

3,083 ratings

88%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Erika Lee's The Making of Asian America has been widely praised for its comprehensive and insightful examination of Asian American history, tracing diverse experiences and contributions from the 1500s to today. Critics applaud Lee's accessible writing and thorough research, though some find the extensive detail overwhelming. Overall, it is a monumental and enlightening narrative.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Making of Asian America?

Readers with an interest in Asian American history and immigration narratives will appreciate The Making of Asian America by Erika Lee. Comparable to Ronald Takaki's Strangers from a Different Shore and Helen Zia's Asian American Dreams, it appeals to those keen on exploring the profound impact of Asian Americans on American society.

4.5

3,083 ratings

88%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Erika Lee

An American historian and author known for her expertise in Asian-American history and immigration history, having written multiple acclaimed books on these subjects.

A Japanese American civil rights activist recognized for his role in challenging the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, an effort that highlights issues of racial injustice.

A Hmong American politician who made history as the first person of Hmong descent elected to a state legislature, highlighting the integration of diverse voices in American politics.

The first documented Chinese woman in the United States, gaining attention for her public appearances and interactions that drew both interest and exoticism in 19th-century America.

An Indian American whose Supreme Court case on racial eligibility for naturalization citizenship highlights the complex interplay of race and identity in American history.

A Filipino American journalist and immigration rights activist notable for his candidness about his undocumented status and influential work in changing the narrative around immigration.

Book Details
Pages

560

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 19th-21st centuries

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1330L

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