This collection by noted historian Paul Yee is based on the tumultuous & brave history of the Chinese immigrants to North America. Drawing on the real background of the Chinese role in the gold rush, the building of the railway & the settling of the west coast in the 19th century, Yee has created 8 original stories that combine the rough-&-tumble adventure of frontier life with the rich folk traditions that these immigrants brought from China. These tales are funny, sad, romantic & earthy, but ultimately, as a collection, they reflect the gritty optimism of the Chinese who overcame prejudice & adversity to build a unique place for themselves in North America. They are accompanied by stunning & dramatic paintings by award-winning illustrator Simon Ng.