This book emerges from an oral history initiative based in Los Angeles, dedicated to amplifying the voices of Chinese immigrants and their multi-generational descendants. Drawing on in-depth, hybrid interviews—conducted both in person and online—it compiles personal narratives from individuals spanning diverse age groups, professional backgrounds, and life trajectories. These stories chronicle migration journeys originating from mainland China and beyond, exploring universal themes of displacement, cultural identity, resilience, and the evolving meaning of "home." By weaving these intimate accounts into a cohesive narrative, the book illuminates not only individual life histories but also a nuanced, collective portrait of the Chinese American community, inviting readers to gain profound insights into intergenerational cultural memory and belonging.
Zhao Yurong, Ph.D., is a Professor and Dean of the School of Foreign Studies at Northeastern University at Qinhuangdao. Her research focuses on narrative discourse analysis, immigrant identity, interactional linguistics, and second language acquisition. Currently, she is leading research projects funded by the National Social Science Foundation and the Ministry of Education. She has published over 30 papers in academic journals. Professor Zhao also serves as a Standing Director for both the Hebei Provincial University Foreign Language Teaching Research Association and the Hebei Translators Association.
This book emerges from an oral history initiative based in Los Angeles, dedicated to amplifying the voices of Chinese immigrants and their multi-generational descendants. Drawing on in-depth, hybrid interviews—conducted both in person and online—it compiles personal narratives from individuals spanning diverse age groups, professional backgrounds, and life trajectories. These stories chronicle migration journeys originating from mainland China and beyond, exploring universal themes of displacement, cultural identity, resilience, and the evolving meaning of "home." By weaving these intimate accounts into a cohesive narrative, the book illuminates not only individual life histories but also a nuanced, collective portrait of the Chinese American community, inviting readers to gain profound insights into intergenerational cultural memory and belonging.
Yurong Zhao
Chinese immigrant narratives Cultural identity and migration Chinese diaspora life stories Oral history Transnational experience Cross-cultural adaptation