Younghill Kang

Younghill Kang (1903–1972) was a pioneering Korean-American author, educator, and journalist. He is best known for his autobiographical novel 'The Grass Roof' (1931), which was the first English-language novel by a Korean author, and its sequel 'East Goes West'. Kang's work provides a vivid portrayal of the immigrant experience in America and the challenges of cultural assimilation. He played a significant role in introducing Korean culture and literature to Western audiences.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. East Goes West

    This novel is a captivating narrative that follows the journey of a young Korean immigrant as he navigates the complexities and challenges of life in the United States during the early 20th century. Through his eyes, readers are offered a rich exploration of the immigrant experience, marked by a quest for identity and belonging amidst cultural dislocation. The protagonist's encounters and observations provide a poignant commentary on the contrasts between Eastern and Western philosophies and lifestyles, as well as the universal search for meaning and connection in a rapidly changing world. This story is not only a personal tale of adaptation and self-discovery but also a broader reflection on the intersections of culture, identity, and the human condition.

    The 1810th Greatest Book of All Time