5 Non-Fiction Books Written By Asian Authors

Posted on 5/8/2023, 3:25:32 PM

May is Asian Heritage Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the contributions and achievements of Asian people around the world. In honor of this month, we've put together a list of five non-fiction books written by Asian authors that offer insights into the Asian experience, explore cultural identity, and provide a window into Asian history and society.

1. "The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down" by Anne Fadiman "The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down" is a critically acclaimed book that explores the clash between Western medicine and the traditional Hmong culture in the United States. The book tells the story of Lia Lee, a Hmong child with epilepsy, and the challenges her family faces as they try to navigate the American healthcare system. This book is an eye-opening look at the complexities of cross-cultural communication and the importance of understanding different perspectives.

2. "Pachinko" by Min Jin Lee "Pachinko" is a sweeping historical novel that follows the lives of a Korean family over four generations. The book is set in Japan, and it explores themes of identity, family, and the immigrant experience. "Pachinko" is a beautifully written and moving portrayal of the Korean diaspora and the struggles of immigrants to find a sense of belonging in a new country.

3. "Minor Feelings: An Asian American Reckoning" by Cathy Park Hong "Minor Feelings" is a collection of essays that explore the Asian American experience through the lens of the author's own life. Cathy Park Hong reflects on her upbringing as a Korean American in the United States, and she examines the ways in which Asian Americans have been marginalized and overlooked in American society. This book is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of identity, race, and belonging.

4. "The Making of Asian America: A History" by Erika Lee "The Making of Asian America" is a comprehensive history of Asian Americans in the United States. Erika Lee traces the history of Asian immigration to the United States, from the first wave of Chinese immigrants in the mid-19th century to the present day. The book explores the challenges and triumphs of Asian Americans, and it sheds light on the complex and often overlooked history of this diverse community.

5. "The Baddest Bitch in the Room" by Sophia Chang "The Baddest Bitch in the Room" is a memoir by Sophia Chang, a Korean American hip-hop manager, and entrepreneur. Chang worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Wu-Tang Clan, A Tribe Called Quest, and Raphael Saadiq. In her book, Chang shares her experiences navigating the male-dominated music industry and reflects on her journey to find her voice and assert her identity.

In conclusion, these five non-fiction books by Asian authors offer unique perspectives on the Asian experience, explore cultural identity, and provide a window into Asian history and society. They are all excellent reads that are sure to deepen your understanding of the complexities of the Asian experience and celebrate the diverse voices and contributions of Asian people around the world.

For 15 minute non-fiction books summaries, check out sumizeit.com