Finds that "Strangers from a Different Shore" is a balanced and successful example of sociological research in the comparative/historical manner, and recommends it highly. Notes that quantitative sociological research on Asian Americans is relatively undeveloped. (DM)

Focuses on Supreme Court naturalization rulings in relation to Asian immigrants. Asserts that an ethos of racial exclusion set the stage for internment of Japanese Americans in World War II and continues to discriminate against Asian immigrants in the United States today. (GC)

Introduces seven essays on Ronald Takaki's "Strangers from a Different Shore: A History of Asian Americans." Opinion is divided as to the book's merits in terms of its content, organization, and research methodology. Two responses by Mr. Takaki are included. (DM)

Commends the book as a general introduction. Finds, however, that much of the material is secondary, with insufficient attribution. The book's coverage of the postwar period is largely anecdotal and does not record the recent emergence of ethnic and political consciousness, community organization, and artistic expression among Asian Americans. (DM)

Replies to every criticism in the foregoing essays of Ling-chi Wang, Elaine Kim, and Sucheng Chan. Endorses Chan's call for more in-depth research. Explains that the size of the book and the number of sources prevented closer annotation in the first edition. (DM)

"Strangers from a Different Shore" paints a panoramic vista, speaks with an epic voice, is easy to read, but contains many misleading statements and imprecise generalizations. The author fails to acknowledge his debt to other researchers and writers. (DM)

"Strangers from a Different Shore" makes significant use of Asian-American literature, especially autobiography, but consistently misses the women's viewpoints of themselves and their experiences. Cites interesting and pertinent material might have been included. Calls for a feminist treatment of this subject. (DM)

Ronald Takaki accounts for his having used Karen Leonard's material without permission and defends his omnibus style of footnoting. He discusses revisions made in the subsequent edition of "Strangers from a Different Shore" in response to Professor Leonard's requests. (DM)

The book, "History of the Okinawans in North America," is reviewed by its translator, who also summarizes the history and culture of the Okinawan community in California. Okinawans long considered themselves an oppressed minority among Japanese and desire a separate history in order to preserve the community and its cultural heritage.…

Discusses the past inadequacies and omissions of Asian American studies. Discusses the need to further the understanding of the Asian experience in the United States through critical scholarship, fresh perspectives, and new approaches to the study of Asian diaspora, such as exploring the international dimension. (JS)