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Awesome Asian Americans: 20 Stars Who Made America Amazing
Enjoy the best children's anthology of noteworthy Asian Americans. This compelling collection features 20 profiles with 60 action-packed, color illustrations.
It's about time - rebel girls, rad women, little leaders, and great guys are Asian American too! Readers will enjoy learning about 20 groundbreaking citizens who have contributed to the USA.
These profiles of compelling personalities, men and women from diverse backgrounds and vocations, are brought to life with fantastic color illustrations. Immigrants and their children continue to enrich America’s culture. Discover important chapters of U.S. history not covered in school textbooks, and the marvelous accomplishments of these trailblazers. Challenged by racism, prejudice, and stereotypes, these pioneers forged ahead and became role models for generations to come.
Parents and children will enjoy learning about these compelling personalities. These captivating chapters make great reading for any hour, from book reports to bedtime stories. Teachers and librarians will use this contemporary collection as a relevant resource and an accessible reference. Artist Juan Calle’s 60 dynamic color illustrations bring these fascinating and informative portraits to life.
"I really enjoyed your book, a great mix of Asian-Americans from different fields and countries, with many types of stories that should inspire young readers. I learned a lot!"
- Milton Chen, Senior Fellow, George Lucas Educational Foundation
It's about time - rebel girls, rad women, little leaders, and great guys are Asian American too! Readers will enjoy learning about 20 groundbreaking citizens who have contributed to the USA.
These profiles of compelling personalities, men and women from diverse backgrounds and vocations, are brought to life with fantastic color illustrations. Immigrants and their children continue to enrich America’s culture. Discover important chapters of U.S. history not covered in school textbooks, and the marvelous accomplishments of these trailblazers. Challenged by racism, prejudice, and stereotypes, these pioneers forged ahead and became role models for generations to come.
Parents and children will enjoy learning about these compelling personalities. These captivating chapters make great reading for any hour, from book reports to bedtime stories. Teachers and librarians will use this contemporary collection as a relevant resource and an accessible reference. Artist Juan Calle’s 60 dynamic color illustrations bring these fascinating and informative portraits to life.
"I really enjoyed your book, a great mix of Asian-Americans from different fields and countries, with many types of stories that should inspire young readers. I learned a lot!"
- Milton Chen, Senior Fellow, George Lucas Educational Foundation
132 pages, Paperback
Published November 17, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
April 24, 2023
2.75 / 5 stars
This was aggressively ok. It wasn’t anything special, nor was it noticeably miserable.
Notice the comma in between those two clauses? Well, you certainly won’t if you read this! I don’t think it was really edited. Not only were there glaring grammatical errors, but there were tons of typos, too!
It was really cool to read about all these people. They seemed really interesting! Sadly, we mostly got some surface level information on them and we’re told how much their house costs. Which is, frankly, annoying and unnecessary information.
I can’t ignore the sexism. Every time a woman was talked about, the biography quickly began talking about her husband and what he did. If they wanted to talk about a man, they should have. It’s just cruel to ignore the accomplishments of a woman because she’s married. After all, it’s not the 1920’s anymore.
The art was cool and well done. I can’t say I’m sure what some of the illustrations were meant to be about because they were just kinda there, completely unexplained. I honestly couldn’t tell you why a child Mindy Kaling was holding a sock puppet while I was reading about her college experience.
I have no intentions to reflect negatively on the people described. Like I said, they seem really awesome, and I’m glad I got to learn about them. My issues are simply with the method of sharing their stories.
This was aggressively ok. It wasn’t anything special, nor was it noticeably miserable.
Notice the comma in between those two clauses? Well, you certainly won’t if you read this! I don’t think it was really edited. Not only were there glaring grammatical errors, but there were tons of typos, too!
It was really cool to read about all these people. They seemed really interesting! Sadly, we mostly got some surface level information on them and we’re told how much their house costs. Which is, frankly, annoying and unnecessary information.
I can’t ignore the sexism. Every time a woman was talked about, the biography quickly began talking about her husband and what he did. If they wanted to talk about a man, they should have. It’s just cruel to ignore the accomplishments of a woman because she’s married. After all, it’s not the 1920’s anymore.
The art was cool and well done. I can’t say I’m sure what some of the illustrations were meant to be about because they were just kinda there, completely unexplained. I honestly couldn’t tell you why a child Mindy Kaling was holding a sock puppet while I was reading about her college experience.
I have no intentions to reflect negatively on the people described. Like I said, they seem really awesome, and I’m glad I got to learn about them. My issues are simply with the method of sharing their stories.
August 8, 2022
3.5 stars, rounded up.
This collection of biographical profiles features colorful, energetic illustrations and detailed information about each Asian American it covers. The writing is engaging and is solid overall, but there are a number of typos and grammar errors, and there are some confusing transitions in the text. Since this started as a Kickstarter project, it's understandable why it didn't have enough editorial support, but it could be improved in future printings.
Although I greatly enjoyed this as an adult reader, I'm not sure what age group it's aimed it. The author sometimes simplifies or translates phrases that young readers might not know (e.g., "postpartum depression" becomes "sadness after childbirth"), but he also uses other phrases and references other concepts that children are unlikely to be familiar with. Many, many profiles mention the impact of 9/11 on the subjects (ranging from racial profiling at airports to general economic effects), but the author never once explains what happened on that day. He just names 9/11 and assumes that readers will know.
There are also some occasional adult references, including multiple sex-related titles named as Mindy Kaling's past and current projects. I see no reason to name projects like The Sex Lives of College Girls or Good in Bed to an elementary audience, if they really are the intended audience for this book. There's just no reason to bring it up.
This book has lots of great, inspiring stories in it, profiling a number of well-known and lesser-known Asian American achievers from different eras and different fields of influence. I would recommend this with the above caveats, and would encourage parents to read this with children or take note of things to discuss with them.
This collection of biographical profiles features colorful, energetic illustrations and detailed information about each Asian American it covers. The writing is engaging and is solid overall, but there are a number of typos and grammar errors, and there are some confusing transitions in the text. Since this started as a Kickstarter project, it's understandable why it didn't have enough editorial support, but it could be improved in future printings.
Although I greatly enjoyed this as an adult reader, I'm not sure what age group it's aimed it. The author sometimes simplifies or translates phrases that young readers might not know (e.g., "postpartum depression" becomes "sadness after childbirth"), but he also uses other phrases and references other concepts that children are unlikely to be familiar with. Many, many profiles mention the impact of 9/11 on the subjects (ranging from racial profiling at airports to general economic effects), but the author never once explains what happened on that day. He just names 9/11 and assumes that readers will know.
There are also some occasional adult references, including multiple sex-related titles named as Mindy Kaling's past and current projects. I see no reason to name projects like The Sex Lives of College Girls or Good in Bed to an elementary audience, if they really are the intended audience for this book. There's just no reason to bring it up.
This book has lots of great, inspiring stories in it, profiling a number of well-known and lesser-known Asian American achievers from different eras and different fields of influence. I would recommend this with the above caveats, and would encourage parents to read this with children or take note of things to discuss with them.
February 24, 2021
I just finished this wonderful collection- Awesome Asian Americans. I didn't realize this was a Kickstarter first. The "comics" style illustration was really fun. I appreciated seeing Filipinos being represented! Now is the perfect time to read this.
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There has been an increase in anti-Asian attacks recently. And, the elderly population seem to be the ones being targeted. We all need to do our part to stop this. Look out for one another. Support those affected. Educate others that it's our differences that make us great and that different doesn't mean inferior or less than.
If you're in a position of privilege and consider yourself an ally and personally know anyone who may act in this kind of way, talk to them and see if you can figure out a way for them to change their point of view even if it takes a long time and even if it's uncomfortable to have those kinds of conversations. Don't let the people being victimized have to save themselves and expect them to help you help them at the same time.
---
There has been an increase in anti-Asian attacks recently. And, the elderly population seem to be the ones being targeted. We all need to do our part to stop this. Look out for one another. Support those affected. Educate others that it's our differences that make us great and that different doesn't mean inferior or less than.
If you're in a position of privilege and consider yourself an ally and personally know anyone who may act in this kind of way, talk to them and see if you can figure out a way for them to change their point of view even if it takes a long time and even if it's uncomfortable to have those kinds of conversations. Don't let the people being victimized have to save themselves and expect them to help you help them at the same time.
June 2, 2025
This is a simple but profound book which has changed my views and understanding on how what injustices and prejudices Asian Americans have overcome in American history. I am struck with how many have positively influenced our world for good. This book shows example after example of how to believe in our power for good when faced with adversity in life’s challenges. I recommend this book to all people of all ages who care about broadening perspective.
June 14, 2021
I wasn't aware of so many famous and influential Asian Americans.
“Immigrants and their children continue to enrich our nation’s culture. Discover important chapters of American history and the marvelous accomplishments of these groundbreaking pioneers.”
Created by comic book artist and editor Philip Amara and children’s author Oliver Chin, this book was borne out of the anti-Asian racism during the COVID pandemic. It made me appreciate the contributions of many Asian Americans who came before us.
Featured in the book chronologically with their country of origin:
Tyrus Wong -artist (China)
Sono Osato - dancer (Japan)
Dr Sammy Lee - diver and doctor (Korea)
Yuri Kochiyama - activist (Japan)
Daniel K. Inouye - soldier & statesman (Japan)
Victoria Manalo Draves - First Asian female Olympic gold medal diver in two events (Philippines)
Bruce Lee - martial artist & actor Hong Kong)
Dr Flossie Wong-Staal - biologist & virologist (China)
Dr Steven Chu - physicist & teacher (China)
Shahid Khan - Engineer & CEO (Pakistan)
Helen Zia - author & activist (China)
Dolly Gee - federal judge (China)
Dr Jane Luu - astronomer (Vietnam)
Satya Nadella - technologist & CEO Microsoft (India)
Lea Salonga - First Asian female to win Tony & play Eponine in Les Mis- singer (Philippines)
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson - wrestler & actor (Samoan)
David Chang - chef & restaurateur (Korea)
Mindy Kaling - writer, actress, producer (India)
Chrissy Tiegen - model & entrepreneur (Thailand)
Jeremy Lin - NBA basketball player (China)
“Immigrants and their children continue to enrich our nation’s culture. Discover important chapters of American history and the marvelous accomplishments of these groundbreaking pioneers.”
Created by comic book artist and editor Philip Amara and children’s author Oliver Chin, this book was borne out of the anti-Asian racism during the COVID pandemic. It made me appreciate the contributions of many Asian Americans who came before us.
Featured in the book chronologically with their country of origin:
Tyrus Wong -artist (China)
Sono Osato - dancer (Japan)
Dr Sammy Lee - diver and doctor (Korea)
Yuri Kochiyama - activist (Japan)
Daniel K. Inouye - soldier & statesman (Japan)
Victoria Manalo Draves - First Asian female Olympic gold medal diver in two events (Philippines)
Bruce Lee - martial artist & actor Hong Kong)
Dr Flossie Wong-Staal - biologist & virologist (China)
Dr Steven Chu - physicist & teacher (China)
Shahid Khan - Engineer & CEO (Pakistan)
Helen Zia - author & activist (China)
Dolly Gee - federal judge (China)
Dr Jane Luu - astronomer (Vietnam)
Satya Nadella - technologist & CEO Microsoft (India)
Lea Salonga - First Asian female to win Tony & play Eponine in Les Mis- singer (Philippines)
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson - wrestler & actor (Samoan)
David Chang - chef & restaurateur (Korea)
Mindy Kaling - writer, actress, producer (India)
Chrissy Tiegen - model & entrepreneur (Thailand)
Jeremy Lin - NBA basketball player (China)
April 20, 2023
The title of this book perfectly sums up what you will find between the covers - Awesome Asian Americans who have changed the United States for the better in every way. With bright, colorful illustrations, readers get the opportunity to see the incredible accomplishments made by these twenty men and women. These glorious pictures are wonderfully bolstered by strong, informative prose detailing the lives and professional milestones of these role models. I felt a huge swelling of pride as I read each page and that continued to grow and grow as I moved through the book. This book doesn't shy away from discussing anti-Asian racism faced by many of the people featured in this book as well as discussing how COVID-19 and the pandemic affected the lives of Asian Americans.
While this book is geared for elementary and middle school students, I think everyone would benefit from reading this book. I'm a middle aged man, and I learned a great deal about a number of people I'd never even heard about. It makes me sad to think I went through my history classes in both high school and college and never learned about what these men and women did and how they improved the lives of not only Asian Americans but all citizens of the United States. But, luckily, I discovered this book and it has truly enriched my life. It's so well worth the read!
While this book is geared for elementary and middle school students, I think everyone would benefit from reading this book. I'm a middle aged man, and I learned a great deal about a number of people I'd never even heard about. It makes me sad to think I went through my history classes in both high school and college and never learned about what these men and women did and how they improved the lives of not only Asian Americans but all citizens of the United States. But, luckily, I discovered this book and it has truly enriched my life. It's so well worth the read!
December 17, 2020
Language: G (0 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: G; Violence: G
In these 20 mini-biographies, Amara and Chin highlight Asian Americans who have done amazing things despite racism and other hardships. Some of these heroes are doctors, soldiers, and Olympians; others are singers, artists, and athletes. Whether you want to follow the trails they have blazed or make a path all your own, the stories of these stars will encourage and inspire.
Amara and Chin chose a wide variety of people to highlight, and the range shows just how important Asian Americans have been in building the image of America that we have, even when others told them to “go back where they came from.” The overall message of not only tolerance but love and inclusion was clear without being belabored. I was surprised by how many of the people highlighted are familiar to me, and I loved learning more about them.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
In these 20 mini-biographies, Amara and Chin highlight Asian Americans who have done amazing things despite racism and other hardships. Some of these heroes are doctors, soldiers, and Olympians; others are singers, artists, and athletes. Whether you want to follow the trails they have blazed or make a path all your own, the stories of these stars will encourage and inspire.
Amara and Chin chose a wide variety of people to highlight, and the range shows just how important Asian Americans have been in building the image of America that we have, even when others told them to “go back where they came from.” The overall message of not only tolerance but love and inclusion was clear without being belabored. I was surprised by how many of the people highlighted are familiar to me, and I loved learning more about them.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
October 24, 2021
It’s so amazing that my son gets to grow up reading about inspiring Asian Americans who made a true difference. I loved reading about people I never even heard of (Tyrus Wong was the lead illustrator in Bambi whaaat?!)
The collection of 20 stars highlighted here were brave, courageous, resilient, and full of dreams that they pursued and achieved…despite all the prejudices and hurdles they faced. Wow.
The collection of 20 stars highlighted here were brave, courageous, resilient, and full of dreams that they pursued and achieved…despite all the prejudices and hurdles they faced. Wow.
September 27, 2021
This book demonstrates inclusivity and diversity by highlighting the amazing accomplishments of 20 Asian Americans. It shared each individual's life story and the challenges they faced to get to the point they are at today. This book is a reminder to choose literature in your classroom that is inclusive and allows students to see themselves in the readings.
January 25, 2021
A good selection of profiles, reflecting the diversity of talents and role models within the Asian American communities. Good addition to all school and public libraries, and a good gift for k-8 students.
February 10, 2022
Personally, not my kind of book (not super into biographies), but I learned some new faces. I liked the artwork for each person, and I think each bio was an appropriate length for the targeted age group.
January 21, 2021
Selection of profiles were great. Artwork was great. Quotes were great. Writing...meh.
August 5, 2021
Flipped through it; read Dwayne Johnson’s story. It was just ok.
June 5, 2022
I really liked this book and the lay out, only let down was I would have loved to see actual pictures of the people. The art was great, I just wanted a touch of real.
May 6, 2026
I loved this book because it introduces you to many asian americans that I think most people didn't know about.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews