Made in Asian America: A History for Young People
CCBC Review:
This adaptation of Lee’s adult book, written in an informative yet conversational tone, examines the history of Asians in America. As it moves across centuries up to recent events, the narrative illuminates experiences of different Asian national and ethnic identity groups immigrating to the United States. Sidebars explore concepts and issues that are referenced in the primary narrative. An explanation of “Racism,” for example, examines modes of thinking in racist justification: “Those people are inferior to us.” “Those people are dangerous.” “There are too many of them.” “This is for their own good.” The narrative often calls back to one or more of these as it chronicles the experiences of different Asian groups in America over time. The narrative also establishes two modes of colonialism that are referenced throughout: Finders Keepers and Takers Keepers. These attitudes impacted events in the United States and around the world and influenced conditions that led to people coming here, making clear that geo-political influences impact how Asian heritage is perceived in America at any given time. This is a sweeping picture but constantly grounded in specifics of identity, individuals, and events, making for an accessible, engaging work that affirms that there are many ways of being Asian in America. ©2025 Cooperative Children’s Book Center
CCBC Age Recommendation: Age 13 and older
Age Range:
Grades 6-8 (Ages 11-13)
Grades 9-12 (Age 14 and older)
Format:
Substantial Narrative Non-Fiction
Subjects:
19th Century
20th Century
21st Century
Asian Americans
Colonialism
Identity
Politics and Political Systems
Racism
U.S. History
World History
Diversity subject:
Asian
Publishers:
HarperCollins, Quill Tree
Publish Year: 2024
Pages: 303
ISBN: 9780063242937
CCBC Location: Non-Fiction, 973 Lee