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.

“Powerful. . . . Made in Asian America isn’t just about the past. It’s about the history being made right now by young people, inspired by the Asian Americans who came before them to ensure that our stories are not only heard, but also remembered.” —Paula Yoo, The New York Times Book Review

From three-time Newbery Honoree Christina Soontornvat and award-winning historian Erika Lee comes a middle grade nonfiction that shines a light on the generations of Asian Americans who have transformed the United States and who continue to shape what it means to be American.

Asian American history is not made up of one single story. It’s many. And it’s a story that too often goes untold. 

It begins centuries before America even exists as a nation. It is connected to the histories of Western conquest and colonialism. It’s a story of migration; of people and families crossing the Pacific Ocean in search of escape, opportunity, and new beginnings.

It is also the story of race and racism. Of being labeled an immigrant invasion, unfit to become citizens, and being banned, deported, and incarcerated. Of being blamed for bringing diseases into the country.

And it is a story of bravery and hope. It is the story of heroes who fought for equality in the courts, on the streets, and in the schools, and who continue to fight in solidarity with others doing the same.

This book is a stirring account of the ordinary people and extraordinary acts that made Asian America and the young people who are remaking America today.