This is the first comprehensive study of how U.S. immigration policies have shaped - demographically, economically, and socially - the six largest Asian American communities: Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Asian Indian. For each group, the book offers detailed information, on gender, age, birth-place, geographic settlement, employment profiles, income, and poverty. The author questions the validity of the images of Asian Americans as academic 'whiz kids', their communities as relatively lacking in strong political interests, and the presence of a unified Asian American identity. This pioneering work of research and analysis is intended as a step toward a better understanding of relationships and experiences. 'The study includes the effects of immigration laws on Asian American attitudes towards education, political participation, and self-identity ...This is a commendable and gripping 'read'.' Choice