About the Book Based on the experiences of the authors father-in-law, this book recounts a disturbing chapter in Chinese-American history. Because of the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act, new immigrants are detained at San Franciscos Angel Island until they are called to take a difficult oral exam before they can land. Illustrations. Book Synopsis Sun is ready to leave his village in China for America, the place known as Gum Saan, Gold Mountain. His father warns him, though, that passage will not be easy. Because of the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act, new immigrants like Sun are detained at Angel Island until they are called to take a difficult oral exam before they can land - leave Angel Island and go ashore. On the boat, Sun had studied maps of his village and memorized facts about his ancestors. But as the weeks pass in detainment, the maps compass points swirl in his memory, and Sun worries that he will lose his direction and be turned away. The oil paintings are rich with historical details in this vivid recounting, based on the authors father-in-laws experiences, of a disturbing chapter in Chinese American history. Review Quotes Told with quiet restraint. But the tension is always there, and Chois beautiful, full-page line-and-watercolor paintings, in sepia tones and shades of green, are quiet and packed with feeling. -- Starred, Booklist Chois soft illustrations. . . capture the spirit of the time with beautiful visual detail. This is a significant book. -- School Library Journal This testament to the pull of Gold Mountain offers a bit of Chinese-American history in a handsome package. -- Kirkus Reviews Provides a rare glimpse into the challenges posed for Chinese immigrants in the early 20th century. -- Publishers Weekly Chois lovely, somber, full-page watercolors and Lees quiet narrative. . .put a human face on the great abstraction of immigration. -- Washington Post Book World Ellis Island may be well known to most schoolchildren, but its West Coast cousin is finally getting the attention it deserves. -- The Bulletin for the Center of Childrens Books About the Author MILLY LEE is the author of Earthquake (see page 49), also illustrated by Yangsook Choi. She grew up in San Franciscos Chinatown and lives in Santa Rosa, California. YANGSOOK CHOI has written and illustrated many books for children, including Peach Heaven . She lives in New York City.