Title
Being Chinese: Voices from the Diaspora,Used
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Chinese have traveled the globe for centuries, and today people of Chinese ancestry live all over the world. They are the Huayi or "Chinese overseas" and can be found not only in the thriving Chinese communities of the United States, Canada, and Southeast, but also in enclaves as farreaching as Cuba, Zimbabwe, and Peru. In this book, twentytwo Chinese living and working outside of Chinaordinary people from all walks of lifetell us something about their lives and about what it means to be Chinese in nonChinese societies.In these pages we meet a surgeon raised in Singapore but westernized in London who still believes in the value of Chinese medicine, which "revitalizes you in ways that Western medicine cannot understand." A member of the Chinese Canadian community who bridles at the insistence that you can't be Chinese unless you speak a Chinese dialect, because "Even though I do not have the Chinese language, I think my ability to manifest many things in Chinese culture to others in English is still very important." Individuals all loyal to their countries of citizenship who continue to observe the customs of their ancestral home to varying degrees, whether performing rites in memory of ancestors, practicing fengshui, wearing jade for good luck, or giving out red packets of lucky money for New Year.What emerges from many of these accounts is a selective adherence to Chinese values. One person cites a high regard for elders, for high achievement, and for the sense of togetherness fostered by his culture. Another, the bride in an arranged marriage to a transplanted Chinese man, speaks highly of her relationship: "It's the Chinese way to put in the effort and persevere." Several of the stories consider the difference between how Chinese women overseas actually live and the stereotypes of how they ought to live. One writes: "Coming from a traditional Chinese family, which placed value on sons and not on daughters, it was necessary for me to assert my own direction in life rather than to follow in the traditional paths of obedience." Bracketing the testimonies are an overview of the history of emigration from China and an assessment of the extent to which the Chinese overseas retain elements of Chinese culture in their lives.In compiling these personal accounts, Wei Djao, who was born in China and now lives near Seattle, undertook a quest that took her not only to many countries but also to the inner landscapes of the heart. Being Chinese is a highly personal book that bares the aspirations, despairs, and triumphs of real people as it makes an insightful and lasting contribution to Chinese diasporic studies.
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This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
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- Q: How many pages does this book have? A: This book has two hundred forty pages. It provides a comprehensive look at the experiences of the Chinese diaspora.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures six inches in length, zero point eight inches in width, and nine point zero two inches in height.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: This book is paperback bound. This makes it lightweight and portable for readers.
- Q: What is the main theme of 'Being Chinese: Voices from the Diaspora'? A: The main theme explores the lives and experiences of Chinese individuals living outside of China. It addresses cultural identity, values, and personal stories.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of this book is Wei Djao. She shares her insights and experiences as part of the Chinese diaspora.
- Q: What is the genre of this book? A: The genre of this book is Asian American Studies. It provides an academic perspective on the Chinese diaspora.
- Q: Is this book suitable for academic research? A: Yes, this book is suitable for academic research. It contributes to the understanding of the Chinese diaspora and cultural studies.
- Q: How can I best read and engage with this book? A: You can read this book at your own pace, reflecting on the diverse stories presented. It’s suitable for both casual readers and scholars.
- Q: Is this book appropriate for all ages? A: Yes, this book is appropriate for all ages. However, it may be more beneficial for older teens and adults interested in cultural studies.
- Q: How do I care for this paperback book? A: To care for this paperback book, keep it in a dry place and avoid exposure to direct sunlight. This will help preserve its condition.
- Q: Can I return this book if I don't like it? A: Yes, you can return this book if you are unsatisfied with it. Check the specific return policy of the seller for details.
- Q: What should I do if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, contact the seller immediately. They can guide you through the return or replacement process.
- Q: Is there a warranty for this book? A: No, there is no warranty for this book. However, you can refer to the return policy for any issues.
- Q: How does this book compare to other works in Asian American literature? A: This book offers a unique perspective through personal narratives, distinguishing it from other academic texts in Asian American literature.
- Q: What makes this book a good choice for understanding Chinese culture? A: This book provides firsthand accounts from Chinese individuals abroad, making it an insightful choice for understanding cultural identity.