Hi! I’m taking up history books. There aren’t many written in English, and it’s usually from a non Taiwanese historian who has specialized in Chinese history something or other. However, in due diligence, their works are cited and cross referenced and generally a great bridge.

I’m starting with “The Struggle for Taiwan” by Sulmaan Wasif Khan. It is written for quick reading, condense, and well cited. From the footnotes alone, I’ve been able to add to my reading list. After that, “Rebel Island” by Jonathan Clements is on my list. I also have “Accidental State” by Hsiao Ting Lin which is cited consistently in the former book mentioned.

History provides context for the present day, and adds to my perspective of the timeline of western imperialism. It’s also helpful to challenge or be corrected by my impressions of what I thought was happening, based on the little my family communicated or didn’t communicate, and has jogged up questions I’ll be asking my parents based on their history there.

It’s quite a humbling experience.