World interests seldom hear the voices of Taiwanese. Economically, Taiwan is important to the world but politically it is treated as a pawn in Sino-American relations. . . .This book . . . is an important collection of articles written solely by Taiwanese [that shows] who the Taiwanese people are, what they wish for their future, and the importance of Taiwan in the world. [It is] vital reading for people to understand the struggle of the Taiwanese to establish their identity and the significance of democratic Taiwan in the free world.

Pacific Times

A comprehensive look at Taiwan and its recent transition to democracy [including] excellent insights by people who were directly involved in the democratic process, from President Lee Teng-hui on down. . . .Kudos to the two editors, Shyu-tu Lee and Jack Williams, for bringing this group of contributors together to present such a wealth of insights and information not found in other analyses by outside scholars. It is indeed a genuinely unique view from the inside. Highly recommended.

Taiwan Communiqué

The essays in this volume are worthwhile in tracing the evolution of Taiwan’s democracy, and could be helpful background for newcomers to the subject.

Taiwan Business Topics

This volume makes a significant contribution to the literature on Taiwan politics concerning an important issue. The ideas of many leading Taiwanese politicians and intellectuals are presented in their own words; areas of consensus as well as disagreement among Taiwanese identities emerge; and the quality of the essays [makes] the book of considerable interest to specialists on Taiwan and presents vital materials for the policy-making community.

American Journal of Chinese Studies

A treasure trove of diverse topics. The rise of nationalism is traced as well as the shaping of culture by history; then there is the matter of the diversity of Taiwan’s DNA, the development of human rights; it all ends in how Taiwan’s history is clearly separate from that of China.

Taipei Times

While a great deal has been written about Taiwan, remarkably little attention has been devoted to the people whose lives are most affected: the Taiwanese themselves. This volume addresses that profound lacuna. The contributors address issues ranging from history, politics, economics, ethnic identity, literature, and international relations that reflect their concerns for their future. Included are academics, former government officials, and public figures—all but one ethnic Taiwanese. Vital reading for all those who would understand this volatile yet vibrant area better.

June Teufel Dreyer, University of Miami