Parents' Guide to

Made in Asian America: A History for Young People

Made in Asian America book cover: Asian Americans arms up in celebration stand under sky, clouds, sun

Common Sense Media Review

JK Sooja By JK Sooja , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 12+

Robust history features social justice, inspiring people.

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Why Age 12+?

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This book is a necessary and incredibly informative presentation of Asian American history. While more academic histories of Asian America have been noteworthy, Made in Asian America: A History for Young People is the first that's particularly written for a younger audience. But of course, adults too can enjoy and benefit from this text, as most of its information is not typically taught in schools.

Texts like Made in America are an important corrective but also important for what it represents, which is a resource, an example, and a testament to Asian Americans growing up as racial "minorities" that there is a history (in the first place) and that this history includes an incredible depth of diversity and variety that's inspiring, painful, fascinating, and deeply meaningful. The book contextualizes the "silencing" of Asian American histories, narratives, and experiences within institutionalized racism that demands that only a particular "kind" of person can be "American," but then Lee and Soontornvat smartly personalize these histories. Focusing on individual people—Patsy Mink, Daniel Inouye, Deann Borshay, Suni Lee, and many more—and their extended families, colleagues, and communities, means readers feel connected and invested in the history they are reading about, the American history that we are all inheriting. A great read and resource for all young people.

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