From Booklist
The first part of this collective biography describes the Filipino odyssey in North America from 1763 to the present. It examines Filipino influences on American life and vice versa. The second and main part of the book has extended biographies of 66 notable Filipinos in the U.S. and Canada, such as lingerie designer Josie Natori and political activist Irene Natividad. Each profile includes a photograph of the biographee. Profiles are arranged by profession, such as "Arts & Culture," "Law & Jurisprudence," "Literature & Journalism," and "Science & Technology." The profiles are then in alphabetical order. Several chapters treat a group of people. The biographees were nominated by others or invited by the author for inclusion. An interim panel then selected individuals based on their "personal achievements and success sharing or social commitment." Each subject was sent a copy of the profile to approve before publishing. The third part of the volume has short profiles of 25 other significant Filipinos. Some of these entries include photographs. The bibliography lists publications from the Philippines and the U.S. and Canada.
There is a subject index and one listing the biographees. It is obvious in places that the author is not a native English speaker, but this does not deter from the value of the book. Libraries serving the Filipino community will want a copy of this book about a little-known and influential ethnic group.
Review
The achievements and influences of Filipinos in American and Canadian society and history is covered from the initial arrival of Filipinos to America in 1763 to modern times. More than 100 men and women are featured in a title which blends history with biography and personal achievement. -- Midwest Book Review
