Strangers From a Different Shore, by Ronald Takaki, is a study of Asian Americans. The book concentrates on Chinese, Filipino, Japanese and Indian immigrants, although other Asian immigrants are also discussed. Most came to America and Hawaii with hopes and dreams of a better life. Many did not find it.

Asian immigration began because of the need for labor. In Hawaii there was an need for plantation workers, and the growers began to import Chinese workers. Many of the Chinese signed labor contracts in China that provided for passage and the terms of their employment. They left their families behind and worked long and hard hours in the fields. They lived in crowded conditions.

Eventually, workers were recruited from other occupations and this led to conflict between the groups. The planters intentionally played one group against the other so they couldn't write and act as one labor group in their demands for higher wagers and better conditions.

Asians immigration to the mainland began in response to labor demands due to industrialization and the building of railroads. Eventually many Asians can to America looking for jobs. They only jobs they found were low paying jobs that other workers didn't want. Most could not bring their families and could not marry white women. This led to the development of a picture bride business.

Asian immigrants faced a great deal of discrimination. Only low wage jobs were available. They were denied service in most white establishments. Some were able to open their own small business, which allowed them to eke out a living.

The Asians were discriminated against by the immigration laws. Many were not allowed to bring their families with them. At one point in history, Chinese immigration was prohibited entirely by the Chinese exclusion act.

World War II resulted in changes in the attitude and treatment of Asian Americans. A nation that opposed the racial practices of the Nazis could not allow or promote racial discrimination at home, and various legislation was enacted. After the Vietnam War, there was a massive influx of Asian refugees from various Asian countries. Takaki points out that Asians feel like strangers in America because they are not accepted as equals.

Takaki writes an interesting book that the readers will find interesting and informative.