At Pioneer, we believe in the value of diverse storytellers. We also love books. Seriously. For some of us, it’s an obsession.

By reading books from a variety of storytellers, we gain new perspectives, deepen our understanding of different cultures and spark conversations. In honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, we asked our team of utility storytellers to share books they enjoyed featuring the heritage and modern-day experiences of Asian and Pacific American storytellers.

1. 1. “Everything Sad is Untrue“ by Daniel Nayeri
      Recommended by Megan
      Stories are a powerful way to bridge differences. Spending time with people – an author, in this case – helps you fall in love with their stories. A powerful memoir, this book chronicles the author’s own experience as a young refugee from Iran to Oklahoma. Daniel Nayeri’s poignant storytelling weaves together memory, myth, and imagination, captivating readers with his journey of resilience and hope.
   2. “Little Fires Everywhere” by Celeste Ng 
      Recommended by Laura, Stephanie
      Celeste Ng masterfully crafts a gripping tale that delves into themes of motherhood, identity and the complexities of relationships. Set in the suburban world of Shaker Heights, Ohio, this novel explores the intertwined lives of two families, unraveling secrets and igniting profound changes. 
   3. “Musashi” by Eiji Yoshikawa 
      Recommended by Brenden
      Step into the world of feudal Japan with Eiji Yoshikawa’s epic historical novel. Inspired by the life of legendary samurai Miyamoto Musashi, this enthralling tale takes readers on a journey of self-discovery, martial arts, and the pursuit of mastery. While the author was not Asian American, we love this book because it celebrates Japanese heritage. 
   4. “Jade City“ by Fonda Lee 
      Recommended by Megan
      Fonda Lee presents a gripping blend of fantasy and crime drama in this thrilling saga. Set in a bustling city where jade grants its wielders extraordinary powers, the Kaul family faces political intrigue, rival clans and the demands of tradition in a world on the brink of chaos. 
   5. “They Called Us Enemy“ by George Takei
      Recommended by Sydney
      This graphic memoir by George Takei, renowned actor and activist, offers a poignant and deeply personal account of his childhood experience in Japanese American internment camps during World War II. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving civil liberties and fighting against injustice. 
   6. “Crying in H Mart” by Michelle Zauner 
      Recommended by Alyssa
      Michelle Zauner, known as the musician behind Japanese Breakfast, shares a heartfelt memoir that explores her Korean-American identity, grief and the power of food. Through evocative storytelling, Zauner takes readers on an emotional journey that resonates with themes of family, loss and cultural heritage. 
   7. “The Sympathizer“ by Viet Thanh Nguyen 
      Recommended by Alyssa
      This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Viet Thanh Nguyen provides a gripping narrative that explores the aftermath of the Vietnam War. Through the eyes of a conflicted protagonist, the story delves into themes of identity, loyalty and the complexities of divided loyalties. 
   8. “Sharks in the Time of Saviors” by Kawai Strong Washburn 
      Recommended by Megan
      Kawai Strong Washburn’s debut novel takes readers on a beautiful, tragic story circling family, Hawaiian legends, loss and the struggle to survive. Blending myth and reality, this captivating story follows the Flores family and explores themes of identity, spirituality, and the power of love amidst the challenges they face. 

What are you reading? 

We’d love to know if you’ve read these stories, too, and if you have other recommendations! Please share what you’re reading as a comment below.  

Celebrate diverse storytellers.  
Tell your story!