This book provides a survey of literature by North American writers of Asian descent, both by national origins and by shared concerns. The volume is intended to serve as both a guide and a reference work for scholars, teachers, and students. In terms of breadth and depth of coverage, and the diversity of perspectives, it is the first of its kind.

This book provides a survey of literature by North American writers of Asian descent, both by national origins (Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, South Asian, Vietnamese) and by shared concerns. It introduces readers to the distinctive literary history of each group of writers and discusses issues that connect or divide these different groups. Part I provides a literary history of each constituent national group and underlines salient historical events that have affected its writing. Part II, addressing common racial issues such as nationalism, representation and crises of identity, explores the forces that bind, divide, and foster exchange between writers of diverse ethnic origins. The volume is intended to serve as both a guide and a reference work for scholars, teachers and students in Asian American studies, ethnic studies and American studies. In terms of breadth and depth of coverage it is the first of its kind.