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Learning Our Names: Asian American Christians on Identity, Relationships, and Vocation
What's your name?
Asian Americans know the pain of being called names that deny our humanity. We may toggle back and forth between different names as a survival strategy. But it's a challenge to discern what names reflect our true identities as Asian Americans and as Christians. In an era when Asians face ongoing discrimination and marginalization, it can be hard to live into God's calling for our lives.
Asian American Christians need to hear and own our diverse stories beyond the cultural expectations of the model minority or perpetual foreigner. A team from East Asian, Southeast Asian, and South Asian backgrounds explores what it means to learn our names and be seen by God. They encourage us to know our history, telling diverse stories of the Asian diaspora in America who have been shaped and misshaped by migration, culture, and faith. As we live in the multiple tensions of being Asian American Christians, we can discover who we are and what God may have in store for us and our communities.
Asian Americans know the pain of being called names that deny our humanity. We may toggle back and forth between different names as a survival strategy. But it's a challenge to discern what names reflect our true identities as Asian Americans and as Christians. In an era when Asians face ongoing discrimination and marginalization, it can be hard to live into God's calling for our lives.
Asian American Christians need to hear and own our diverse stories beyond the cultural expectations of the model minority or perpetual foreigner. A team from East Asian, Southeast Asian, and South Asian backgrounds explores what it means to learn our names and be seen by God. They encourage us to know our history, telling diverse stories of the Asian diaspora in America who have been shaped and misshaped by migration, culture, and faith. As we live in the multiple tensions of being Asian American Christians, we can discover who we are and what God may have in store for us and our communities.
228 pages, Paperback
Published August 30, 2022
19 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
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September 1, 2022
Learning Our Names holds its own as a unique blend personal narrative, socio-political history, and theological reflection on the topic of what it is like to be an Asian American Christian along three major sections of story, relationship, and vocation. The book’s strength comes from its multiple authors, each of whom draw upon their multiple years of ministry in Asian American spaces and contexts to offer up their different reflections on the topics at hand. Personally speaking, I found that each of the authors were able to speak directly to my current context as a Korean-American Christian male despite our different cultural, geographic, and vocational differences, likely a testament to the seeming universality of this thing we call “Asian America”. At the same time however, several sections of the book fell short personally, either in terms of length with chapters feeling like they ended too soon or with the chapter’s engagement with a topic not going beyond a 101-esque introduction to Asian American theology/history. While I at first disliked the book’s overly introductory nature, I began to appreciate it as the authors would ask “basic” questions and offer next-step challenges that I had not considered for a long time, if ever. Ideas like the difference between an “ethno-centric” vs “ethno-specific” church were refreshing ways to understand certain ideas that I had not been able to articulate.
Regardless, the book is a wonderful summary and contextualization of several prominent and perennial topics for Asian American Christians today.
Regardless, the book is a wonderful summary and contextualization of several prominent and perennial topics for Asian American Christians today.
September 28, 2022
"Chinese names are harder to remember. Take an English name." This is a common comment made by Westerners when they try to pronounce a Chinese name. Often, they mispronounce. This makes the title of the book quite identifiable among many Asians in Western society. For Asians who immigrated to the West, it might be a culture shock at most or an inconvenience at least. For those who grew up as natively, it is a way of life. In a book written by Asian Americans for the larger Christian public, we read several stories depicting the constant struggles to find acceptance and recognition in a largely non-Asian culture. The stories are subdivided into three categories:
1) Learning our Stories;
2) Learning our Relationships;
3) Learning our Vocations.
In "Learning Our Stories," each author shares how racialization has impacted them. David de Leon shares his Pilipino upbringing by sharing the history of the Philippines, and how the country was influenced by Spanish powers and American colonialism. He tells us that names not only point to the past but also show us the hope that parents have for the next generation. Sabrina Chan shares her Hong Kong background and how she got her English name through American movies. Linson Daniel's parents hail from India while he was born in Texas, making him a full American citizen both nationality-wise as well as culture-wise. La Thao laments about the cultural confusion happening even within her own family. Her parents' Hmong upbringing over parenting matters conflicts with the Western parenting advocated by American sitcoms and popular cultures. One of the major emotional conflicts has got to do with the different expressions of love.
There are many stories that speak of racialization occurring in modern America. Being ethnically Chinese, Sabrina represents a minority that gains acceptance mostly through hard work and performance. With marginalization leading to fear and uncertainty, many Asian Americans are forced to accept being reclassified as a lower class or invisible as far as equal rights are concerned. Even the verbal acceptance voiced by members of the white community does not seem deep enough for emotional comfort. Reflecting on the biblical names of Daniel's three friends, many similarities are felt when reading about how their Babylonian names were used more often than their Hebrew heritage names. The following sentence is haunting: "It would have us stay quiet and focus only on our own plight in exchange for fitting in and being well thought of. But speaking up against racism and other injustices is one way we upend the model minority myth." By showing us ways in which we can battle racialization both outwardly and inwardly, we are emboldened to stand up for injustice or unequal treatment.
On Relationships, the authors look at three significant relationships in our culture: With our parents; with our partners; with our single selves; and with one another. They reflect on what these relationships mean in the light of the love of God in the gospel. We grapple with things of culture, theology, as well as stereotypes. Cultural differences grow in complexity when we introduce matters of gender, multidimensional perspectives, and different perceptions about roles and expectations. Then there are the expectations pertaining to marriages and singlehood. Churches need to play their part to educate marriage and singleness in the light of God's calling instead of cultural expectations.
The final part of the book looks at the struggles in finding a home at Church; understanding the meaning of calling in Western culture; and leadership.
My Thoughts
==============
It's about time! As an Asian living in a largely non-Asian culture, this book contains many observations I find familiar. In fact, some of them are way too familiar for any comfort. Those of us who spend most of our time with homogeneous communities might not feel the tensions as much. For the rest of us who need to interact often with the majority of races, the problems described in this book become distinct. Most if not all of the stories resonate with me, especially the part about the relationships with our parents. With regard to the racialization aspect of living, it opens up our eyes to the hidden injustice and prejudices that are still happening in our modern world. Perhaps, with more open sharing and discussions like these, the next generation would be more understanding of the unique struggles of Asian Americans living in the West. The term "Asian American" is a common term used among Asians living in America. Due to the shared emotions and common traits felt among Asians in Western society, I feel that the term applies equally as well to those in largely English-speaking nations such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
This book can benefit a wide group of audiences. First, it benefits those considered members of the ethnic majority by showing them what they don't normally see. It reveals white privileges often taken for granted in all aspects of society. From jobs to social acceptance, school participation to various roles in society, we should not kid ourselves to say that ethnicities do not matter. They do matter. How else will we then understand the constant emphasis in our constitution and laws that mention the requirement to be fair and equitable to all? The truth is, things are not what they seem to be. The second group to benefit will be Asians struggling to make sense of what it means to live in America or in Western nations with an Asian minority. By learning that they are all in the same boat, they could be a source of comfort and encouragement as they eke out their own sense of identity without feeling uncomfortable about their skin colour. Third, it benefits the rest of us to learn to be more sensitive to the needs and feelings of Asian Americans. The first step toward peace and reconciliation to happen is understanding. We already live in a divided world. If there is anything we can do to bridge the gaps, it is to share our stories and invite others to learn about us. This is exactly what this book has done.
I hope that books like this will trigger more expressions which hopefully will launch a wave of stories so that we can all learn and benefit from greater understanding. I believe that all Asians, regardless of where they are born should read this book. Why? That is simply because the world is becoming more globalized. With increasing immigration activities, perhaps, other races can take a leave from the Asian American example to avoid injustice for the rest.
Sabrina S. Chan, a daughter of immigrants from Hong Kong, is national director of Asian American Ministries for InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA. She is an ordained minister and earned a master's degree in theology from Fuller Theological Seminary.
Linson Daniel (Indian American) is associate pastor of Metro Church in Dallas, Texas. He previously served as the national coordinator for South Asian InterVarsity and is a doctoral student at Fuller Theological Seminary.
E. David de Leon (Pilipino American) is a doctoral student at Fordham University and previously served as national director of InterVarsity's Global Urban Trek.
La Thao (Hmong American) is an InterVarsity campus staff in Wisconsin and previously served as the director of InterVarsity's Hmong Christian Collegiate Conference.
Rating: 4.75 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of InterVarsity Press and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
1) Learning our Stories;
2) Learning our Relationships;
3) Learning our Vocations.
In "Learning Our Stories," each author shares how racialization has impacted them. David de Leon shares his Pilipino upbringing by sharing the history of the Philippines, and how the country was influenced by Spanish powers and American colonialism. He tells us that names not only point to the past but also show us the hope that parents have for the next generation. Sabrina Chan shares her Hong Kong background and how she got her English name through American movies. Linson Daniel's parents hail from India while he was born in Texas, making him a full American citizen both nationality-wise as well as culture-wise. La Thao laments about the cultural confusion happening even within her own family. Her parents' Hmong upbringing over parenting matters conflicts with the Western parenting advocated by American sitcoms and popular cultures. One of the major emotional conflicts has got to do with the different expressions of love.
There are many stories that speak of racialization occurring in modern America. Being ethnically Chinese, Sabrina represents a minority that gains acceptance mostly through hard work and performance. With marginalization leading to fear and uncertainty, many Asian Americans are forced to accept being reclassified as a lower class or invisible as far as equal rights are concerned. Even the verbal acceptance voiced by members of the white community does not seem deep enough for emotional comfort. Reflecting on the biblical names of Daniel's three friends, many similarities are felt when reading about how their Babylonian names were used more often than their Hebrew heritage names. The following sentence is haunting: "It would have us stay quiet and focus only on our own plight in exchange for fitting in and being well thought of. But speaking up against racism and other injustices is one way we upend the model minority myth." By showing us ways in which we can battle racialization both outwardly and inwardly, we are emboldened to stand up for injustice or unequal treatment.
On Relationships, the authors look at three significant relationships in our culture: With our parents; with our partners; with our single selves; and with one another. They reflect on what these relationships mean in the light of the love of God in the gospel. We grapple with things of culture, theology, as well as stereotypes. Cultural differences grow in complexity when we introduce matters of gender, multidimensional perspectives, and different perceptions about roles and expectations. Then there are the expectations pertaining to marriages and singlehood. Churches need to play their part to educate marriage and singleness in the light of God's calling instead of cultural expectations.
The final part of the book looks at the struggles in finding a home at Church; understanding the meaning of calling in Western culture; and leadership.
My Thoughts
==============
It's about time! As an Asian living in a largely non-Asian culture, this book contains many observations I find familiar. In fact, some of them are way too familiar for any comfort. Those of us who spend most of our time with homogeneous communities might not feel the tensions as much. For the rest of us who need to interact often with the majority of races, the problems described in this book become distinct. Most if not all of the stories resonate with me, especially the part about the relationships with our parents. With regard to the racialization aspect of living, it opens up our eyes to the hidden injustice and prejudices that are still happening in our modern world. Perhaps, with more open sharing and discussions like these, the next generation would be more understanding of the unique struggles of Asian Americans living in the West. The term "Asian American" is a common term used among Asians living in America. Due to the shared emotions and common traits felt among Asians in Western society, I feel that the term applies equally as well to those in largely English-speaking nations such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
This book can benefit a wide group of audiences. First, it benefits those considered members of the ethnic majority by showing them what they don't normally see. It reveals white privileges often taken for granted in all aspects of society. From jobs to social acceptance, school participation to various roles in society, we should not kid ourselves to say that ethnicities do not matter. They do matter. How else will we then understand the constant emphasis in our constitution and laws that mention the requirement to be fair and equitable to all? The truth is, things are not what they seem to be. The second group to benefit will be Asians struggling to make sense of what it means to live in America or in Western nations with an Asian minority. By learning that they are all in the same boat, they could be a source of comfort and encouragement as they eke out their own sense of identity without feeling uncomfortable about their skin colour. Third, it benefits the rest of us to learn to be more sensitive to the needs and feelings of Asian Americans. The first step toward peace and reconciliation to happen is understanding. We already live in a divided world. If there is anything we can do to bridge the gaps, it is to share our stories and invite others to learn about us. This is exactly what this book has done.
I hope that books like this will trigger more expressions which hopefully will launch a wave of stories so that we can all learn and benefit from greater understanding. I believe that all Asians, regardless of where they are born should read this book. Why? That is simply because the world is becoming more globalized. With increasing immigration activities, perhaps, other races can take a leave from the Asian American example to avoid injustice for the rest.
Sabrina S. Chan, a daughter of immigrants from Hong Kong, is national director of Asian American Ministries for InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA. She is an ordained minister and earned a master's degree in theology from Fuller Theological Seminary.
Linson Daniel (Indian American) is associate pastor of Metro Church in Dallas, Texas. He previously served as the national coordinator for South Asian InterVarsity and is a doctoral student at Fuller Theological Seminary.
E. David de Leon (Pilipino American) is a doctoral student at Fordham University and previously served as national director of InterVarsity's Global Urban Trek.
La Thao (Hmong American) is an InterVarsity campus staff in Wisconsin and previously served as the director of InterVarsity's Hmong Christian Collegiate Conference.
Rating: 4.75 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of InterVarsity Press and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
November 26, 2022
I’m not part of the target audience, but this book was so encouraging and helpful in understanding the Asian American Christian experience. The format reflects the experience of multiple Asian American authors, and includes helpful questions for reflection at the end.
I was provided a free copy by NetGalley in return for my honest review.
I was provided a free copy by NetGalley in return for my honest review.
July 19, 2022
I requested this ARC (thank you to NetGalley and InterVarsity Press) because I thought it would be good for my family members, for those working with college students, for my friends who have adopted children from countries in Asia, and for uninformed readers in general. I will definitely be buying the book August 2022 when it comes out on the 29th. I was only halfway through when I recommended it to one of our local university Christian leaders. It is from InterVarsity Press, so it is written by Christ-followers.
The book covers a number of subjects with input from four Asian-American authors whose families have ties to cultures in four different Asian countries. One of the chapters I would love to see developed into a full-size book about how Asia is not a country. The stories of these authors are as diverse as the countries of the Asian continent are, yet people in the United States, probably 9 times out of 10, group them as one culture.
Sometimes the chapters can seem instructional yet it could be much needed instruction. There is so much in this book that needs to be learned. I have so many bookmarked pages on this online copy that I need my own physical copy to highlight and tab pages. I highly recommend the book. Love the title; love the cover.
The book covers a number of subjects with input from four Asian-American authors whose families have ties to cultures in four different Asian countries. One of the chapters I would love to see developed into a full-size book about how Asia is not a country. The stories of these authors are as diverse as the countries of the Asian continent are, yet people in the United States, probably 9 times out of 10, group them as one culture.
Sometimes the chapters can seem instructional yet it could be much needed instruction. There is so much in this book that needs to be learned. I have so many bookmarked pages on this online copy that I need my own physical copy to highlight and tab pages. I highly recommend the book. Love the title; love the cover.
June 24, 2022
I started reading this book as part of AAPI History Month (though it did take me a bit to finish it). I am so thankful that I read it! The authors gave such great and informative perspectives that I hadn’t considered before. The book is divided into 3 major parts:
- Learning Our Stories (with subparts, Learning Our Names, Being Asian American, and Resisting Our Racialization)
- Learning Our Relationships (with subparts, Knowing Our Parents, Growing Our Partnerships, Living Our Singleness, and Embracing Our Religious Diversity)
- Learning Our Vocations (with subparts, Finding a Home at Church, Discovering Our Vocation, and Bringing Our Leadership)
Through each parts, the authors brought their stories to the forefront, while bringing awareness and understanding for things they have gone through as Asian Americans. Their pride in who they are shines through and is evidenced by their desire to help people like them. I would highly recommend this book for anyone who is looking to learn from perspectives other than their own, as well as Asian Americans that want to be encouraged in their racial identity. Though I would be remiss if I didn’t note that there’s a few pretty serious errors of theology in the book.
- Learning Our Stories (with subparts, Learning Our Names, Being Asian American, and Resisting Our Racialization)
- Learning Our Relationships (with subparts, Knowing Our Parents, Growing Our Partnerships, Living Our Singleness, and Embracing Our Religious Diversity)
- Learning Our Vocations (with subparts, Finding a Home at Church, Discovering Our Vocation, and Bringing Our Leadership)
Through each parts, the authors brought their stories to the forefront, while bringing awareness and understanding for things they have gone through as Asian Americans. Their pride in who they are shines through and is evidenced by their desire to help people like them. I would highly recommend this book for anyone who is looking to learn from perspectives other than their own, as well as Asian Americans that want to be encouraged in their racial identity. Though I would be remiss if I didn’t note that there’s a few pretty serious errors of theology in the book.
April 22, 2023
As a Filipino-American, reading this book made me feel seen and was healing to my soul! It ends with a blessing, and if any part of it resonates with you or stirs within you a sense of longing, this book is for you:
“May you remember that El Roi sees you and knows your names (all of them), your stories, and draws you into true belonging.
May you receive and share the love of Christ Jesus in your relationships with parents, family, friends, community, and church.
May you faithfully seek justice as you live your vocations and trust the Spirit's work in you and around you.
Amen.”
And if you’re not Asian American, this book is a valuable resource to understand the history, psyche, and challenges of Asian Americans. Also, it’s a good, formative practice to read and listen to sources that center people who don’t look like ourselves because it helps us to be more whole. Wrestling with issues of identity, relationships, and vocation is a universal experience and Asian Americans have a lot to offer in these conversations.
“May you remember that El Roi sees you and knows your names (all of them), your stories, and draws you into true belonging.
May you receive and share the love of Christ Jesus in your relationships with parents, family, friends, community, and church.
May you faithfully seek justice as you live your vocations and trust the Spirit's work in you and around you.
Amen.”
And if you’re not Asian American, this book is a valuable resource to understand the history, psyche, and challenges of Asian Americans. Also, it’s a good, formative practice to read and listen to sources that center people who don’t look like ourselves because it helps us to be more whole. Wrestling with issues of identity, relationships, and vocation is a universal experience and Asian Americans have a lot to offer in these conversations.
June 18, 2023
Haiku summary:
El Roi, God who sees.
Order, fullness, and meaning.
Joy in His Presence.
•
Thoughts:
This book gave me an image of drinking my favorite hot green tea and chatting with a trusted mentor! There were specific parts of this book that were said perfectly about the Asian American experience and dealing with stereotypes/ racialization. I feel like some of my own experiences and feelings were described super accurately which was affirming for me. Some aspects of this book I could not relate to as I didn't grow up in an Asian American household. However, they were interesting! Overall, very empowering and affirming :)
El Roi, God who sees.
Order, fullness, and meaning.
Joy in His Presence.
•
Thoughts:
This book gave me an image of drinking my favorite hot green tea and chatting with a trusted mentor! There were specific parts of this book that were said perfectly about the Asian American experience and dealing with stereotypes/ racialization. I feel like some of my own experiences and feelings were described super accurately which was affirming for me. Some aspects of this book I could not relate to as I didn't grow up in an Asian American household. However, they were interesting! Overall, very empowering and affirming :)
September 1, 2022
Excellent book. I really appreciated the content the authors chose, the personal stories they included, the Biblical references, and the practical tips. This was well researched as well as deeply experiential from years of ministry and very theologically rooted. It was a gift to read. As a white woman working in ministry, I will remember many of these stories and encouragements in ministry with Asian American folks and in friendships, too. I’d highly recommend this one!
November 7, 2022
To be honest, found this to be somewhere between okay and good, but I realize it wasn’t really written for me.
It’s valuable to hear the perspectives of Asian-American Christians as they discuss the joys and trials of their experiences in American churches of various types.
Conrade wrote a great review:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
It’s valuable to hear the perspectives of Asian-American Christians as they discuss the joys and trials of their experiences in American churches of various types.
Conrade wrote a great review:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
January 1, 2023
I've spent most of my life looking a book like this. I'm so thankful to each of the authors for putting into words how I've felt in my journey in life and ministry. Great reflections, great wisdom and great end of chapter discussion questions. Highly recommend for any Asian North Americans as seek guidance in their life and spiritual journey.
June 6, 2022
Thanks to Netgalley and Intervarsity Press for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This wasn't a bad book by any means, and I appreciate the viewpoints given in this book - and the range of Asian identities who speak in it. However, it just...wasn't quite what I expected? It felt almost like an Intro to Asian Cultures 101 at times, like the authors were describing and educating things to non-Asians, and then separate sections on Christianity that could apply to everyone. That's not bad or anything, but from the title I thought this book was going to delve deeper into things like worshipping as Asian-Americans, where our voices can be heard in a religion that's predominantly viewed as a white Evangelical population, any predominant Asian Christian figures. It did eventually touch on these things, but it felt like by the time we got there, they were briefly mentioned and the bulk was explaining certain aspects of our cultures, and I just didn't get much out of it. Another review on storygraph mentioned that it didn't feel cohesive, and I agree - there's a lot of really great elements there, and important things to talk about, but I don't think it came together cohesively as the authors intended.
This wasn't a bad book by any means, and I appreciate the viewpoints given in this book - and the range of Asian identities who speak in it. However, it just...wasn't quite what I expected? It felt almost like an Intro to Asian Cultures 101 at times, like the authors were describing and educating things to non-Asians, and then separate sections on Christianity that could apply to everyone. That's not bad or anything, but from the title I thought this book was going to delve deeper into things like worshipping as Asian-Americans, where our voices can be heard in a religion that's predominantly viewed as a white Evangelical population, any predominant Asian Christian figures. It did eventually touch on these things, but it felt like by the time we got there, they were briefly mentioned and the bulk was explaining certain aspects of our cultures, and I just didn't get much out of it. Another review on storygraph mentioned that it didn't feel cohesive, and I agree - there's a lot of really great elements there, and important things to talk about, but I don't think it came together cohesively as the authors intended.
October 11, 2022
Does our culture have space for Asian American Christians? In Learning Our Names, we hear from Asian American Christians on the topics of identity, relationships, and vocation. Written by Sabrina S. Chan, Linson Daniel, E. David de Leon, and La Thao, this book presents a series of topics centered around what it means and feels like to be Asian American and Christian. The East Asian, Southeast Asian, and South Asian backgrounds of the authors are explored with stories and insight.
Asian American Stories
“Part One: Learning Our Stories,” serves as a primer for the Asian American experience. History unfolds in immigration, migration, and labor, and we see how modern-day Asian America came to be through the Cold War and the Civil Rights era. Issues of racialization are addressed, and we are encouraged to bring our anger to God, enter the process of forgiveness, and care for our mental health.
I was most moved in “Part Two: Learning Our Relationships.” In Chapter 4, “Knowing Our Parents,” Thao writes:“‘Have you eaten?’ is a question Asian Americans recognize as a way their parents communicate love.” Thao explains how God’s love is often shown through food, which can help us better see how our Asian parents reflect God’s character. Whether they are saved or not, we are challenged to better know our parents, communicate our love for them, and remember that our parents are people loved by God.
Asian American Identity
This book does not shy away from some of the darker aspects that come with Asian American identity, including sins of sexual assault and abuse. We see how female Asian American stereotypes of being exoticized and subservient, as well as male Asian American stereotypes of being nerdy and unattractive, are ultimately racist, dangerous, and toxic. Partnerships between genders is crucial, and Chan and Daniel agree that both egalitarian and complementarian Christiasns can engage in meaningful partnerships.
This book is also realistic. Parental expectations in regards to dating and marriage are discussed, and religious diversity amongst Asian Americans is addressed. What I found to be most pointed was how many Asian Americans are misunderstood in both the Asian church and the multicultural church. Nevertheless, the church is championed, and readers are encouraged to put in the hard work to find a church home.
God is Still Good
You can feel the already-not-yet tension in this book. Instead of hiding or ignoring it, we are asked to lean into it. We are encouraged to address it. And we are emboldened to share our names, tell our stories, and share how God is still good. May the name of Jesus be the name above every other name.
I received a media copy of Learning Our Names, and this is my honest review.
Asian American Stories
“Part One: Learning Our Stories,” serves as a primer for the Asian American experience. History unfolds in immigration, migration, and labor, and we see how modern-day Asian America came to be through the Cold War and the Civil Rights era. Issues of racialization are addressed, and we are encouraged to bring our anger to God, enter the process of forgiveness, and care for our mental health.
I was most moved in “Part Two: Learning Our Relationships.” In Chapter 4, “Knowing Our Parents,” Thao writes:“‘Have you eaten?’ is a question Asian Americans recognize as a way their parents communicate love.” Thao explains how God’s love is often shown through food, which can help us better see how our Asian parents reflect God’s character. Whether they are saved or not, we are challenged to better know our parents, communicate our love for them, and remember that our parents are people loved by God.
Asian American Identity
This book does not shy away from some of the darker aspects that come with Asian American identity, including sins of sexual assault and abuse. We see how female Asian American stereotypes of being exoticized and subservient, as well as male Asian American stereotypes of being nerdy and unattractive, are ultimately racist, dangerous, and toxic. Partnerships between genders is crucial, and Chan and Daniel agree that both egalitarian and complementarian Christiasns can engage in meaningful partnerships.
This book is also realistic. Parental expectations in regards to dating and marriage are discussed, and religious diversity amongst Asian Americans is addressed. What I found to be most pointed was how many Asian Americans are misunderstood in both the Asian church and the multicultural church. Nevertheless, the church is championed, and readers are encouraged to put in the hard work to find a church home.
God is Still Good
You can feel the already-not-yet tension in this book. Instead of hiding or ignoring it, we are asked to lean into it. We are encouraged to address it. And we are emboldened to share our names, tell our stories, and share how God is still good. May the name of Jesus be the name above every other name.
I received a media copy of Learning Our Names, and this is my honest review.
July 1, 2023
Really mixed feelings about this book. To lead with the positives, the content is all legit and covers the range of topics that are generally important to Asian American Christians. The approach used (scripture led) and frameworks provided are helpful to think through issues. In particular, I found the chapter in ethnic specific vs multi ethnic churches insightful and helpful (and I wish I had read it earlier in my journey!).
Introductory content. Many of the insights are fairly basic and fundamental, and likely much more helpful for college students and those newer to both Christianity and Asian American identity. It's a bit more obvious now that this is a book of wisdom and learnings written by IV staff for their students, with a bit less to offer audiences in more advanced life stages.
Diverse, disjointed voices. While unified in theology and approach, the collection of authors made reading the chapters a bit disconnected, as it was sometimes hard to remember who wrote the chapters, disembodying the content for a book which is all about the embodiment of faith. The book would have benefited much more from a single author which the reader would learn more about and connect with.
Personal stories / structure. Related to the above feedback, this book could really have been rooted a bit more in personal experience. The anecdotes are a bit short and really simply segues instead of being the primary means of communicating struggles and reflection.
I would still recommend the secular books (Biting the Hand) for Asian American life for my peers. Still looking for a great book for AA Christianity.
Introductory content. Many of the insights are fairly basic and fundamental, and likely much more helpful for college students and those newer to both Christianity and Asian American identity. It's a bit more obvious now that this is a book of wisdom and learnings written by IV staff for their students, with a bit less to offer audiences in more advanced life stages.
Diverse, disjointed voices. While unified in theology and approach, the collection of authors made reading the chapters a bit disconnected, as it was sometimes hard to remember who wrote the chapters, disembodying the content for a book which is all about the embodiment of faith. The book would have benefited much more from a single author which the reader would learn more about and connect with.
Personal stories / structure. Related to the above feedback, this book could really have been rooted a bit more in personal experience. The anecdotes are a bit short and really simply segues instead of being the primary means of communicating struggles and reflection.
I would still recommend the secular books (Biting the Hand) for Asian American life for my peers. Still looking for a great book for AA Christianity.
September 4, 2022
LEARNING OUR NAMES: ASIAN AMERICAN CHRISTIANS ON IDENTITY, RELATIONSHIPS, AND VOCATION by Sabrina S. Chan, Linson Daniel, E. David de Leon, and La Thao is a collection of reflections on living faithfully as an Asian American in today’s context. It reads like a friendly conversation among brothers and sisters who have faced both similar and disparate circumstances growing up as part of the Asian diaspora in the U.S.
Even though the book is targeted toward young adults discerning their calling and place in the world, as someone heading towards middle age, I still found it relevant and valuable. I appreciated the diversity of Asian American voices included, the historical-cultural context, and the gracious tone throughout. The concepts of “strategic essentialism”, conditional acceptance, and communal connections as a way to partner with other communities of color were helpful to me as well. I liked the encouragement to be our full selves and to lean into our joy regardless of whether we are in Asian American or multiethnic spaces.
I’ll leave you with one of my fave quotes: “It’s nefarious, really, the way fleeing the perpetual foreigner myth can lead us straight into the model minority myth. For many of us, the need to belong is a raw nerve because of the trauma of exclusion. Add in the communal values that many of us share, and we naturally look to belonging for a greater sense of self. We are often painfully visible in all the ways we don’t want but invisible because our voices are talked over or ignored.”
Thank you to @ivpress for the gifted copy!
Even though the book is targeted toward young adults discerning their calling and place in the world, as someone heading towards middle age, I still found it relevant and valuable. I appreciated the diversity of Asian American voices included, the historical-cultural context, and the gracious tone throughout. The concepts of “strategic essentialism”, conditional acceptance, and communal connections as a way to partner with other communities of color were helpful to me as well. I liked the encouragement to be our full selves and to lean into our joy regardless of whether we are in Asian American or multiethnic spaces.
I’ll leave you with one of my fave quotes: “It’s nefarious, really, the way fleeing the perpetual foreigner myth can lead us straight into the model minority myth. For many of us, the need to belong is a raw nerve because of the trauma of exclusion. Add in the communal values that many of us share, and we naturally look to belonging for a greater sense of self. We are often painfully visible in all the ways we don’t want but invisible because our voices are talked over or ignored.”
Thank you to @ivpress for the gifted copy!
August 3, 2022
This book is a bit of an anthology describing a wide variety of Christian Asian-American experiences. The different authors are all from different Asian contexts. This helps show the differences even from each other and their challenges in entering other Asian environments. However, using multiple authors also has drawbacks. The most significant is that the book feels a little unclear. The unifying factor is the Asian-American Christian experience, but I couldn't sense much more than that.
The stories are at the forefront of the book. While each chapter covers different topics like their relationships, jobs, or experiences in church, it shines in their personal stories. Their unique struggles are informative for non-Asians like me, and I would imagine them encouraging for others. The stories are often honest and come from those who are still in process. This book does not come across like the authors have their identity all figured out and know how to move and worship in every space. Instead, they are transparent about their struggle to find the right answer.
The book is introductory in nature. If you are have already read a ton on Asian-American racism and the church, then this might be a little below your level. I have not read much like this and appreciated it.
I received an advanced copy of this book from netgalley in exchange for this review.
The stories are at the forefront of the book. While each chapter covers different topics like their relationships, jobs, or experiences in church, it shines in their personal stories. Their unique struggles are informative for non-Asians like me, and I would imagine them encouraging for others. The stories are often honest and come from those who are still in process. This book does not come across like the authors have their identity all figured out and know how to move and worship in every space. Instead, they are transparent about their struggle to find the right answer.
The book is introductory in nature. If you are have already read a ton on Asian-American racism and the church, then this might be a little below your level. I have not read much like this and appreciated it.
I received an advanced copy of this book from netgalley in exchange for this review.
September 21, 2022
Learning Our Names
Asian American Christians on Identity, Relationships, and Vocation
by Sabrina S. Chan; Linson Daniel; E. David de Leon; La Thao
Pub Date 30 Aug 2022
InterVarsity Press, IVP
Christian | Nonfiction (Adult) | Religion & Spirituality
I am reviewing a copy of Learning Our Names through InterVarsity Press and Netgalley:
What’s your name? It seems like an easy question but Asian Americans are used to being called names that deny our humanity. They may toggle back and forth between different names as a survival strategy. But it's a challenge to discern what names reflect true identities as Asian Americans and as Christians. In an era when Asians face ongoing discrimination and marginalization, it can be hard to live up to God’s Calling for their lives. Asian American Christians need to hear and own our diverse stories beyond the cultural expectations of the model minority or perpetual foreigner. A team from East Asian, Southeast Asian, and South Asian backgrounds explores what it means to learn our names and be seen by God.
This book encourages ages American to know their history, telling diverse stories of the Asian diaspora in America who have been shaped and misshaped by migration, culture, and faith.
I give Learning Our Names five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
Asian American Christians on Identity, Relationships, and Vocation
by Sabrina S. Chan; Linson Daniel; E. David de Leon; La Thao
Pub Date 30 Aug 2022
InterVarsity Press, IVP
Christian | Nonfiction (Adult) | Religion & Spirituality
I am reviewing a copy of Learning Our Names through InterVarsity Press and Netgalley:
What’s your name? It seems like an easy question but Asian Americans are used to being called names that deny our humanity. They may toggle back and forth between different names as a survival strategy. But it's a challenge to discern what names reflect true identities as Asian Americans and as Christians. In an era when Asians face ongoing discrimination and marginalization, it can be hard to live up to God’s Calling for their lives. Asian American Christians need to hear and own our diverse stories beyond the cultural expectations of the model minority or perpetual foreigner. A team from East Asian, Southeast Asian, and South Asian backgrounds explores what it means to learn our names and be seen by God.
This book encourages ages American to know their history, telling diverse stories of the Asian diaspora in America who have been shaped and misshaped by migration, culture, and faith.
I give Learning Our Names five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
November 26, 2022
Relatable. Helpful. Honest.
I really enjoyed these 4 perspectives on Christianity, the church, vocation, relationships, and what it's like to be an Asian American in the church today.
Particularly Striking lines/thoughts:
Chapter 3:
-The perpetual foreigner (Asians can never be accepted as American and will always be other and less than) and the model minority...There are definitely instances I remember where people assumed I was bookish, good at math, even had Asian cultural values, which had to be dismantled once they realized I was an adoptee. Those instances where I wasn't able to share that I was adopted were especially poignant because I knew it was a snap judgement based on how I looked.
-Book Rec: Mixed Blessing
Chapter 6:
-While it is still common for people to date within your ethnicity, Asian Americans are more likely than any other racial group to marry outside of their race or ethnicity. 3/10 Asian American newlyweds intermarry.
Chapter 8:
-Nativism - that you don't like anything that reminds you of your heritage; you have a disdain for it because it reminds you that you're different.
I really enjoyed these 4 perspectives on Christianity, the church, vocation, relationships, and what it's like to be an Asian American in the church today.
Particularly Striking lines/thoughts:
Chapter 3:
-The perpetual foreigner (Asians can never be accepted as American and will always be other and less than) and the model minority...There are definitely instances I remember where people assumed I was bookish, good at math, even had Asian cultural values, which had to be dismantled once they realized I was an adoptee. Those instances where I wasn't able to share that I was adopted were especially poignant because I knew it was a snap judgement based on how I looked.
-Book Rec: Mixed Blessing
Chapter 6:
-While it is still common for people to date within your ethnicity, Asian Americans are more likely than any other racial group to marry outside of their race or ethnicity. 3/10 Asian American newlyweds intermarry.
Chapter 8:
-Nativism - that you don't like anything that reminds you of your heritage; you have a disdain for it because it reminds you that you're different.
October 16, 2025
This book covers "topics that [the authors] think are important for college students and young adults" (202), written from the perspective of four Asian American Christian leaders. I wasn't quite aware of this book's purpose when I picked it up, but essentially, this is a crash course discipleship tool on common college-aged issues (relationships, vocation, leadership, etc.) from an explicitly Asian American perspective. For that reason alone, it is surely helpful. While no chapter stood out to me as earth shattering or revolutionary, good wisdom in these areas directed to the AA community is much needed. I appreciated the contextual words regarding therapy, abuse, model-minority and perpetual foreigner stereotypes. There were some good historical explanations of Asian American culture (and plenty of discussion on the vast diversity of Asian American culture), and these were my favorite parts. This book is very InterVarsity (both a compliment, and a jab), and I imagine most of its use will be largely limited to the AAM department of IV.
September 8, 2022
This book is a powerful compilation of stories, covering important topics and offering an invaluable resource for the church in America.
This is not just a book for Asian-Americans to read, but it is for anyone who desires to listen and learn— Listen to the journeys of joy and pain faced by our Asian-American brothers and sisters. Learn new things, as the book guides the reader in reflecting on the diversity of being Asian-American, resisting racialization, and embracing different relationships.
I am not Asian-American, but my children are a mixture of Asian (Indonesian) and American. I am grateful that this book helps me learn about and reflect on different areas of life and topics I had never considered before. When my children are older, I will remember to recommend they read this book!
This is not just a book for Asian-Americans to read, but it is for anyone who desires to listen and learn— Listen to the journeys of joy and pain faced by our Asian-American brothers and sisters. Learn new things, as the book guides the reader in reflecting on the diversity of being Asian-American, resisting racialization, and embracing different relationships.
I am not Asian-American, but my children are a mixture of Asian (Indonesian) and American. I am grateful that this book helps me learn about and reflect on different areas of life and topics I had never considered before. When my children are older, I will remember to recommend they read this book!
August 31, 2022
Full disclosure - I know 3 of these writers. I didn't read it because I like them as people. I read it because I trust and have experience with their faithful questioning and practicing what it means to follow Jesus. And, because of that, I do like them too.
The demographic for this book is 18-30-year-olds. I am not that anymore. And still, I am handing this book out like candy. I am hungry for more of these conversations!
This book is solid ground for starting to disentangle and form a spiritual life inclusive of ethnic identity and more. The book does not shy away from the challenge of complexity and nuance of being part of a larger community that is often seen as a monolith by the majority. And it puts theology plainly spoken into practical living.
The demographic for this book is 18-30-year-olds. I am not that anymore. And still, I am handing this book out like candy. I am hungry for more of these conversations!
This book is solid ground for starting to disentangle and form a spiritual life inclusive of ethnic identity and more. The book does not shy away from the challenge of complexity and nuance of being part of a larger community that is often seen as a monolith by the majority. And it puts theology plainly spoken into practical living.
November 4, 2023
I was already indebted to several Asian American friends - from roommates to colleagues - for sharing their stories and challenging my perceptions over the years. This volume expanded my learning to include more generations and countries of origin.
I was repeatedly humbled by the biblical insights and social and historical realities outlined, and the authors' own experiences and faithful responses. I'm grateful for the helpful frameworks they introduced and for the puzzle pieces that dropped into place along the way.
If it was this helpful for me as a non-Asian American, I can only imagine its value for members of such dynamic communities that offer so much to the world and to the church. I look forward to learning more from these sisters and brother.
I was repeatedly humbled by the biblical insights and social and historical realities outlined, and the authors' own experiences and faithful responses. I'm grateful for the helpful frameworks they introduced and for the puzzle pieces that dropped into place along the way.
If it was this helpful for me as a non-Asian American, I can only imagine its value for members of such dynamic communities that offer so much to the world and to the church. I look forward to learning more from these sisters and brother.
September 3, 2022
Seeing this book highly recommended combined with my interest in Asian culture and their lives, I thought this would be a great book to read. I DID learn alot but when it went into a rant about racism and brought George Floyd into the conversation i tuned out. After that, it was difficult to really focus on the stories. Maybe that was the author intention to get us to evaluate our hearts and misconceptions but I feel it went about it the wrong way. What little I read I did enjoy the culture aspect. I will give this another try when i can give it my full attention. Maybe then ill understand it better, maybe.
September 9, 2022
I pre-ordered this book; this topic and book was of high interest to me. I think this book is a much-needed guide in identity formation for Asian Americans. I appreciated the perspective of four different Asians from different backgrounds and experiences. Readers who are not Asian American will develop a deeper understanding of their Asian American friends and the complexity of the issues they face. Asian American readers will find themselves in these pages, along with practical advice and suggestions on navigating various situations and issues (such as honoring parents, religious diversity, vocational choice, etc.)
September 9, 2022
3.5/5 – I enjoyed listening to this as an audiobook. Hearing the intersection of culture and faith was touching as it's part of my lived experience as an AsAm Christian woman. Listening to this definitely felt like I was sitting in at an event back at my college ministry. The contents of the book felt geared towards non-Asian Americans or those that are newer to their faith as Asian Americans. A lot of the chapters felt like it was explaining the AsAm experience and cultural backgrounds so it was nice that it was relatable, but since this is my lived experience it wasn't anything profoundly new to me.
September 8, 2022
I'm German American, and I got a lot out of this book featuring Asian Americans. Everyone will get something out of it. These 4 authors are very transparent. It is my first time reading about the Hmong experience. My favorite is chapter 5, on gender dynamics. Another great chapter is on the strengths and weaknesses of multiethnic churches.
November 20, 2022
i resonated with everything in the book, even the things i didn't.
i didn't agree with everything in the book - the middle chapters in particualr, but still helpful.
If you are Asian-American, I think you should read this book. If you want to understand your Asian-American friends this will probably be really helpful
i didn't agree with everything in the book - the middle chapters in particualr, but still helpful.
If you are Asian-American, I think you should read this book. If you want to understand your Asian-American friends this will probably be really helpful
September 1, 2022
This book gives its readers a great look into what it’s like to encounter racism on micro and macro levels and helps us become aware of when we participate in it, even in the church.
November 9, 2024
啥也没讲出来 对基督几理解不深刻 除了代入亚洲人视角没啥意思
February 4, 2023
relatable, thoughtful, challenging
As a second generation Korean American Christian, I identified with many stories in the book. I enjoyed how it was a collection of various Asian American experiences, not just one author. It is definitely targeted toward a college age/young professional audience. Myself being in my late 30s, part of a church community, with vocation, and married with family, much of the experiences are in the past for me, so I skipped the vocation and singleness chapters. I did not agree with all of their perspectives, but they constantly preface each chapter that they are not trying to push their views on anyone, it is just their experiences.
Overall, glad to have more writing out there by Asian American voices. I was also a student in a local IVF chapter almost 20 years ago.
As a second generation Korean American Christian, I identified with many stories in the book. I enjoyed how it was a collection of various Asian American experiences, not just one author. It is definitely targeted toward a college age/young professional audience. Myself being in my late 30s, part of a church community, with vocation, and married with family, much of the experiences are in the past for me, so I skipped the vocation and singleness chapters. I did not agree with all of their perspectives, but they constantly preface each chapter that they are not trying to push their views on anyone, it is just their experiences.
Overall, glad to have more writing out there by Asian American voices. I was also a student in a local IVF chapter almost 20 years ago.
May 12, 2023
4 Asian American Christians share their experiences and thoughts on Asian American Christianity. They write on the history of Asians in America and racial issues they face, the diversity found within the Asian American community, how to embrace heritage and being American and faithfully follow Christ, relating to parents, relating to others, the challenges of Asian American singles, what is being done well within the church and what needs work, how to pick a church gathering, and how to discern calling.
I work with a lot of Asian American coworkers, and Asian America students or Asian students about to head off to America. I feel like this was an excellent read to better understand where they are coming from and the kinds of challenges they might have faced or might face in the future. I particularly felt like "Chapter 4: Knowing our Parents" was very helpful in giving guidance to people who may not have the same faith as their parents, a question that comes up regularly in my community. I'm glad to have this resource to give to our Asian American students and staff here, and Asian students preparing to go to America.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sexual content (they mention that some have faced assault and Asian women are often objectified, but absolutely no details). Racism, injustices, and race-driven acts of violence are mentioned but are not described in gory detail.
I work with a lot of Asian American coworkers, and Asian America students or Asian students about to head off to America. I feel like this was an excellent read to better understand where they are coming from and the kinds of challenges they might have faced or might face in the future. I particularly felt like "Chapter 4: Knowing our Parents" was very helpful in giving guidance to people who may not have the same faith as their parents, a question that comes up regularly in my community. I'm glad to have this resource to give to our Asian American students and staff here, and Asian students preparing to go to America.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sexual content (they mention that some have faced assault and Asian women are often objectified, but absolutely no details). Racism, injustices, and race-driven acts of violence are mentioned but are not described in gory detail.
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