This is the extremely detailed history that I wished I was told in public education system that I grew up in. But, instead, this history wasn't really touched upon much and I'm grateful for this book to have been as detailed as it is with the migrant stories.

I'm not sure I have ever written a review like this one but here it goes. Michael Luo's Strangers in the Land is an exceptional book with impeccable research, riveting stories, and important historical lessons. There is a bit too much of it, though. Let me explain!

Luo tells the story of the Chinese in America. I think most people remember grade school where the atrocious treatment of Chinese immigrants on the West Coast when they were integral in the completion of the transcontinental railroad. Luo takes it a step further to chronicle specific stories of these immigrants whether it is about the laundry they opened or a horrific mob attack. I don't want to understate how much work Luo put into this and how effectively he tells these stories. Often, people exist only in a smattering of records but the author is able to piece together a story which will move the reader. I will explain my criticism, but I don't want it to take away from the excellent work Luo has done.

The issue is such a weird one to explain. I mean chocolate is great but what's better? More chocolate! However, Luo just puts too much into this book. The exceptional stories I mentioned are overwhelming and while the first half of the book was engaging, it starts to drag after the midway point. The issue is that those small stories start to pass by and blend with similar stories you already read about. There are certain chapters which cover a topic that makes it distinct, but there are others which seem to cover much of the same material but in a different city. Luo also focused the vast majority of the book in the 1800s. The last couple of chapters then cover 60 years in a flash. The pace is off just enough to be noticeable but not fatal.

My criticism aside, this is definitely a book worth reading with an important story that is told well, overall.

(This book was provided as an advance copy by Netgalley and Doubleday Books.)