The book's strength lies in its interdisciplinary approach, which offers rich theoretical insights on assimilation, diaspora, hybridity, bilingualism, and multiculturalism. The book is beneficial not only to scholars of international migration but also to those working in communication, psychology, sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies with an interest in exploring cross-cultural exchanges and identity formation. . . . The book is ... Read morea tour de force of theory and interdisciplinary dialogues. Liu's investigation of generational differences and interracial families probes into two of the least-studied aspects of the Chinese diaspora. Her research adds further knowledge to the complexities and nuances of global Chinese identities. Furthermore...her portrayal of the Chinese diaspora in contemporary Anglo-American societies illustrates constant and multiple shifts between an essentialist mode in the search for belonging and an anti-essentialist mode of blending, negotiation, and adaptation. This offers a more complicated and dynamic way to rethink the current debate on diaspora and inter-cultural identities, which often gravitates toward either one of the modes.
International Migration Review
The book is a rare comprehensive examination of cultural identity drawing from scholarship across disciplines. The author explores experiences of people residing in a space of 'collapsed boundaries,' at first focusing on Chinese diaspora with all its complexity, and offers insight to this culture from the angle of an identity without one typical anchor or a `cultural home.'
Ling Chen, Professor of Communication Studies, Hong Kong Baptist University Based on the experiences of Chinese immigrants in multicultural societies, this book deals with issues of identity, hybridity, and cultural home from an interdisciplinary approach. The book not only reviews and challenges existing theories, but also provides valuable suggestions for future research. It is a remarkable study, which broadens readers' perspective and expands the inquiry in this globalizing society.
Guo-Ming Chen, Professor of Communication Studies, University of Rhode Island This book contains a fascinating and comprehensive exploration of acculturation, hybridity, and cultural home, using as its example the massive Chinese diaspora. Liu's work is at the cutting edge, moving well beyond traditional ideas of acculturation to a nuanced and dynamic discussion of cultural identity. This work is a must-read for anyone interested in acculturation or in Chinese culture.
Cindy Gallois, Emeritus Professor of Psychology and Communication, University of Queensland Show Less