"Essential Nonfiction Reads by AAPI Authors Part II"

1. "Ghosts of Gold Mountain: The Epic Story of the Chinese Who Built the Transcontinental Railroad" by Gordon H. Chang stands as a monumental work of historical scholarship, offering readers a gripping and comprehensive account of one of the most remarkable chapters in American history. Against the backdrop of the tumultuous 1860s, when the United States was torn apart by civil strife and economic upheaval, thousands of Chinese migrants embarked on a perilous journey across the Pacific Ocean in search of opportunity and a better life.

At the heart of Chang's groundbreaking book lies the untold story of these Chinese workers—the unsung heroes who played a pivotal role in the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad, a monumental engineering feat that would forever alter the course of American history. With meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Chang brings to life the trials and tribulations faced by these laborers as they toiled under grueling conditions to lay down tracks across rugged terrain and treacherous landscapes.

Through a combination of archival documents, oral histories, and personal accounts, Chang paints a vivid portrait of the Chinese experience in America—a story marked by resilience, perseverance, and the quest for dignity in the face of adversity. From the backbreaking labor of laying tracks to the social and cultural challenges of life in a foreign land, Chang offers a nuanced exploration of the multifaceted dimensions of the Chinese immigrant experience.

Yet, "Ghosts of Gold Mountain" is more than just a historical chronicle—it is a powerful meditation on the enduring legacy of the Chinese railroad workers and their contributions to the fabric of American society. As Chang eloquently demonstrates, the story of these workers is not just a footnote in history but a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human spirit and the power of collective action to shape the course of nations.

In an era marked by renewed debates over immigration and labor rights, "Ghosts of Gold Mountain" serves as a timely reminder of the sacrifices and struggles of those who came before us, and the debt of gratitude we owe to those who built the foundations of our nation. Through Chang's masterful storytelling and insightful analysis, readers are invited to confront the complexities of America's past and to reckon with the enduring legacies of racism, exploitation, and resilience that continue to shape our society today.

As we reflect on the epic saga of the Chinese railroad workers and their remarkable contributions to the building of America, "Ghosts of Gold Mountain" stands as a testament to the power of historical scholarship to illuminate the hidden corners of our collective memory and to inspire us to imagine a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

2. "Hawaii’s Story by Hawaii’s Queen" by Lili’uokalani stands as a poignant testament to the resilience and indomitable spirit of the Hawaiian people in the face of colonial oppression and injustice. As the only queen and last monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Lili’uokalani's autobiography offers readers a firsthand account of the tumultuous events that led to the overthrow of her kingdom and the annexation of Hawaii by the United States in 1893.

Through her evocative prose and intimate reflections, Lili’uokalani invites readers to journey with her from the idyllic days of her childhood, spent in the embrace of her royal family, to the turbulent years of her reign, marked by political upheaval and social unrest. With candor and grace, she recounts the challenges and triumphs of her life, from her ascension to the throne to her tireless efforts to preserve Hawaiian sovereignty in the face of mounting pressure from foreign interests.

At the heart of Lili’uokalani's autobiography lies a profound meditation on the enduring power of culture, identity, and resistance in the face of colonialism. As she navigates the complexities of her role as queen and leader, she grapples with questions of sovereignty, self-determination, and the preservation of Hawaiian traditions in an ever-changing world.

Despite her efforts to protect her kingdom and her people, Lili’uokalani's reign was ultimately cut short by the forces of imperialism and greed. In 1893, her kingdom was unlawfully overthrown by a group of American businessmen and politicians, leading to the annexation of Hawaii by the United States—an act that Lili’uokalani and her people vehemently opposed.

In "Hawaii’s Story by Hawaii’s Queen," Lili’uokalani bears witness to the profound injustices inflicted upon her nation and her people, while also celebrating the resilience and strength of the Hawaiian spirit. Through her autobiography, she leaves behind a powerful legacy—a testament to the enduring struggle for justice and sovereignty that continues to inspire generations of Hawaiians and advocates for indigenous rights around the world.

As readers immerse themselves in Lili’uokalani's narrative, they are invited to confront the complexities of Hawaii's colonial past and to reckon with the ongoing struggle for self-determination and cultural preservation. "Hawaii’s Story by Hawaii’s Queen" serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of bearing witness to history and honoring the voices of those who have been silenced by the forces of imperialism and oppression.