Mixed Korean: Our Stories: Anthology

by Cerrissa Kim, Sora Kim-Russell, Mary-Kim Arnold

From the struggles of the Korean War, to the modern dilemmas faced by those who are mixed race, comes an assortment of stories that capture the essence of what it is to be a mixed Korean. With common themes of exclusion, and recollections of not looking Korean enough, black enough, white enough, or "other" enough, this powerful collection features works by award winning authors Alexander Chee, Michael Croley, Heinz Insu Fenkl, Joel Peterson and Victoria Namkung, alongside pieces composed by prominent writers, poets and scholars. Interwoven between known literary names, are the voices of newcomers with powerful memories that have never been captured before. Collectively, these stories will resonate with anyone who has ever stood on the outside of a group, longing for inclusion. They are a testament to the courage, strength and resilience of mixed people everywhere. All proceeds will be donated to 325Kamra.org and KoreanAmericanStory.org.

Genres: Nonfiction, Essays

299 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 20, 2018

About the author

Cerrissa Kim was born in Uijeongbu, South Korea. She is an alumni of the Squaw Valley Community of Writers, a member of the Women’s Fiction Writers Association, and is in revisions on her first novel. Cerrissa lives in Sonoma County with a husband who hails from Norway, two “Korwegian” sons, and a cadre of rescue animals. She enjoys making kimchi with her Umma and exploring the secrets of her mudang (shaman) ancestors. As soon as her new website is completed, you will be able to read her work and watch her family’s cooking videos at: www.CerrissaKim.com

Reviews

[J.S. Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a privilege to read such a varied collection of experiences and perspectives, woven together by a unifying thread. I saw a few authors read in San Francisco and it was incredibly moving. Much respect to all who shared their hearts within. Having proceeds go to 325KAMRA and Korean American Story is an added bonus.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book insightful and thought-provoking. I've read much about the history of how Korean-born, mixed-race children came to be adopted -- but prior to reading this anthology, I'd had little opportunity to hear personal, from-the-heart stories such as these (some by adoptees, some by individuals of mixed heritage who were raised by one or both biological parents). I'm grateful to the wonderful writers who shared their stories in these pages, as well as to the editors who worked so hard to bring this book to life.

[Bella · Rating 5 out of 5]

The voices often unheard, share their collective experiences as mixed race Koreans. I found each story to be poignant and reflective. Whether the chapter was a celebrated known author such as Joel Peterson, Cerrissa Kim, Alexander Chee, Michael Croley, Heinz Insu Fenkl, or unknown authors sharing their stories for the first time. Whatever your walk in life, this is a must read.

I was fortunate enough to meet several contributors at the book launch at the Los Angeles Public Library in Koreatown. Hearing them tell their stories in person was riveting and moved the audience and panel to tears.

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

This anthology is somewhat uneven but it has a few stunning pieces. I'm glad I read it!

[Tabetha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book to read over time, one story at a time. I've read about halfway and will continue to read it over time. Basically, I was shocked. I really had no context for the time period of when I was adopted. Reading all of these stories helped me understand what was happening in Korea, what people were going through, how families and single parents and GIs, etc. were coping with various situations. It's actually been quite grounding. Gives me a sense of origin.

I actually went to a local library event here in Los Angeles in Koreatown and met some of the authors of this book before I read it. They did some readings. It was perplexing - the variation of experiences. It made me curious and I purchased the book.