A rich and compelling introduction to the history of Asian Pacific American communities as told through 101 objects, from a fortune cookie baking mold to the debut
Ms. Marvel
comic featuring Kamala Khan
A
Booklist
Top 10 Reference Book of 2024
Smithsonian Asian Pacific American History, Art, and Culture in 101 Objects
invites readers to experience both well-known and untold stories through influential, controversial, and meaningful objects. Thematic chapters explore complex history and shared experiences: navigation, intersections, labor, innovation, belonging, tragedy, resistance and solidarity, community, service, memory, and joy.
The book features vibrant full-color illustrations of objects that embody and engage with Asian Pacific American issues, including the immigrant experience, the importance of media representation, what history gets officially documented vs. what does not, and so much more. Those objects include:
Name tag for
Challenger
astronaut Ellison Onizuka
Photograph of Hollywood actress Anna May Wong
Hello Kitty bento box
Stella Abrera's
ballet shoes, pancaked to match her skin color
Caravan’s
Thailand: Songs for Life
album
Sewing kit of internment camp survivor May Ishimoto
Nam June Paik's
Electronic Superhighway: Continental U.S., Alaska, Hawaii
The Devanagari typographical font patented by Hari Govind Govil
Asian Americans are the fastest growing group in the United States and include approximately 50 distinct ethnic groups, but their stories and experiences have often been sidelined or stereotyped. This spirited and beautifully illustrated book offers a vital window into the triumphs and tragedies, strength and ingenuity, and traditions and cultural identities of these communities.
is a crucial and celebratory read.