Booklist’s guide to East Asian and East Asian American historical fiction
Since the start of the pandemic, the US has seen a sharp rise in harassment and violence directed at Asian Americans. Despite a North American presence older than the nation itself (Filipino sailors landed in California in the 16th century) and centuries of contributions that have shaped daily American life railroads, agriculture, technology, books Americans of Asian descent continue to be attacked for being foreign, for being “other.” The high-profile Atlanta murders in March of eight people, including six women of Asian descent, resulted in greater awareness and growing support of Asian and Pacific American communities, but anti-Asian hate crimes continue to escalate, including thousands more attacks that remain unreported.
Crystal Kim Growing up with a beauty-obsessed Korean mother, I spent hours watching her slather pearlescent, perfumed creams on her cheeks. My
umma was always searching for the next best thing, and as an adult, I became a similar skin care enthusiast without any particular loyalties. I loved trying new products, and I was easily sold by glossy ads, friendly recommendations, and sleek packaging. Every time I finished a serum, I was on to the next. I don’t follow fashion trends, and I hate buying shoes. Skincare was my self-care indulgence, and I was a fickle consumer. That is, until I found my holy grail, my constant: the Burt’s Bees Deep Cleansing Cream.