Distinguished Asian American Business Leaders [Hardcover]

This is the second book in Greenwood's Distinguished Asian Americans series, joining Distinguished Asian American Political and Governmental Leaders [RBB S 1 03]. Although The Asian American Almanac (Gale, 1995) includes biographical sketches of 19 Asian Americans who gained prominence in the business field, this work is the first reference source to focus entirely on business leaders from the Asian American community. Business leader, according to the author, is defined broadly to include those who showed determination and perseverance while overcoming prejudices, learning the English language, and succeeding in the world of commerce. Other factors in her selection of the subjects include philanthropic activities, differing personal philosophies, and ethnic and regional diversity. Nautica Apparel cofounder David Chu, Toys "R" Us CEO Robert Naksone, and PepsiCo president Indra Nooyi are among the individuals included.

The 96 profiles are arranged alphabetically by surname and include information compiled from secondary sources between 1999 and 2001. Many include photographs, and all point the reader to other sources for additional reading. The sketches are simply written and organized to provide full name at birth, education, positions held, honors and awards, and career highlights.

The appendix lists subjects by field, such as "Cosmetics," "Financial Services/Insurence," and "Tourism." An index helps the reader find articles by a key term (Charley's Steakery, daisy-wheel printer, and Japan Society, for example). A finding aid to locate subjects by country of origin would be useful.

Although readers will need to do additional research to analyze why these individuals have been so successful, this will be a useful source for identifying American entrepreneurs with Asian backgrounds. Recommmended for high-school, public, and academic libraries. REVWR
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?[t]his will be a useful source for indentifying American entrepreneurs with Asian backgrounds. Recommended for high-school, public, and academic libraries.?-Booklist/Reference Books Bulletin

The new Distinguished Asian Americans Series provide thoughtful and thorough accounts of important segments of American society. Each book in the series offers in-depth essays that chronicle the lives of outstanding Asian Americans (from historical and contemporary periods) who have distinguished themselves in the fields of politics, government, science, business, religion, and the arts.