The Unsung Great

This collection showcases the diverse experiences of Japanese Americans, highlighting remarkable yet lesser-known individuals and their contributions across various fields, while challenging stereotypes and expanding the narrative beyond the West Coast.

The Unsung Great by Greg Robinson presents a rich tapestry of Japanese American experiences that challenge stereotypes and highlight the remarkable contributions of individuals often overlooked in history. Through captivating portraits, Robinson introduces readers to a diverse array of personalities, from a championship boxer in Louisiana to a Broadway baritone in New York. This exploration reveals that Japanese Americans have consistently defied the narrow image of being quiet Americans, showcasing their vibrant lives and achievements across various fields.

The book draws upon Robinson's insightful writings featured in the San Francisco newspaper Nichi Bei Weekly and the community website Discover Nikkei. By weaving together these narratives, he illuminates themes such as mixed-race families, artistic innovation, civil rights activism, and queer history. Each story not only entertains but also serves to broaden the understanding of Japanese American identity and history, encouraging readers to appreciate the complexity and richness of these experiences.

In addition to focusing on well-known communities on the West Coast, The Unsung Great ventures into less familiar territories, highlighting the vibrant Japanese American communities in places like New York and Chicago, as well as the often-ignored history of Japanese Americans in the Southern United States. Robinson's expertly researched and accessible writing brings to life a constellation of incredible stories, making this collection an essential read for anyone interested in the diverse narratives that shape American history.