A variety of books can help readers celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May. Photo provided by Warsaw Community Public Library.

By Sarah Neel
Communications Manager
Warsaw Community Public Library

WARSAW — May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich histories and diverse cultures of these communities. This tradition began with a congressional resolution in the 1970s and was extended to a full monthlong observance in the 1990s.

Reading books by Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander authors is a meaningful way to honor this month. Books have the power to transport us to different perspectives and experiences while fostering empathy, understanding and connection. Here are some book recommendations available at Warsaw Community Public Library to help you celebrate.

Fiction

Kristiana Kahakauwila’s “This Is Paradise” explores the complexities of life in modern Hawaii through short stories that touch on tradition, identity and change.

C Pam Zhang’s “How Much of These Hills Is Gold” reimagines the American West during the Gold Rush through the eyes of two Chinese American siblings and delves into themes of family, survival and immigration.

Nonfiction

“They Called Us Enemy” by George Takei is a poignant graphic memoir that recounts Takei’s experience in Japanese American internment camps during World War II. Mixing personal stories and historical context, Takei offers a message of resilience and hope.

Susan Lieu’s “The Manicurist’s Daughter” tells the story of a Vietnamese American woman and her family’s pursuit of the American Dream and explores themes of identity, immigration and perseverance.

Young Adult

Stacey Lee’s “The Downstairs Girl” transports readers to 1890s Atlanta, where a Chinese American girl confronts societal prejudices while challenging conventions. Loan Le’s “A Pho Love Story” serves up a heartwarming romantic tale set against the backdrop of family-owned pho restaurants, exploring themes of love, identity and cultural heritage. And David Yoon’s “Frankly in Love” offers a fresh take on the complexities of teenage romance and cultural expectations.

Picture Books

Joanne Ho’s “Eyes that Kiss in the Corners” celebrates the beauty of Asian features and self-acceptance, while Allen Say’s “Grandfather’s Journey” tenderly depicts the immigrant  experience and the longing for home. Maple Lam’s “Dim Sum, Here We Come!” and Aisha Saeed’s “Bilal Cooks Daal” offer delightful culinary adventures that celebrate cultural traditions and family bonds.

These books are just a starting point for exploring the wealth of literature created by Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander authors. Visit Warsaw Community Public Library this May to discover more books to celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.