What does it take to become "successful" in America? What does it take to overcome the constant collision of being told, "you're not American enough" by some, yet ridiculed for being "too white washed" by others? Does every American have an equal opportunity at capturing the "American Dream"?
When Waves Collide is Phat Le's call for a deeper embrace in our cultural differences--- starting with an honest assessment of his own life journey. The riveting descriptions of his treacherous journey with his family as "boat people" attempting to escape a corrupt government after the fall of Saigon illuminates the sacrifices immigrants are willing to endure in order to reach America's shores of freedom.
Economic hardships, racial tensions, language barriers, and cultural differences become obstacles in achieving the "American Dream". His poignant but light hearted stories of acculturation help highlight these struggles.
His exploration with the themes of love, relationships, family, and loss reveals the fact that no matter the differences in our cultural background, deep human emotions and the need for connection are universal.
A declining public education system, problems with youths carelessly experimenting in alcohol and drugs, neglect in adequate mental health care, and an under representation of ethnic minorities in the arts are all growing concerns in today's diverse America.
The author's unique life experiences as an educator, mental health counselor, and respected musician allow him to explore and evaluate these topics with intimate detail and personal insight. He challenges his readers to take action in order to create positive change. His memoir includes a soundtrack of self produced original music that connects to the unique themes throughout the book.
Special thanks to Tyler Eytchison, book cover illustrator.
