Crossing East does for Asian American history what Ken Burns' PBS series did for the Civil War. The epic scale of the productions may be the same, but the big difference is that these fascinating stories have rarely been told outside their local settings, and I'm sure have never been brought together in this way in any medium before. They touch on every region of the United States, revealing ever more layers of the nation's complex multi-cultural heritage (to quote one of the many fine experts who participated in the series.)

Interviews and readings of texts from the past are mixed with subtle, evocative sounds and music which give the production a cinematic feeling. The imagination fills in the pictures. The script is extremely well written - and George Takei is an excellent host. (The title "First Contacts" and Takei's Star Trek role are more than just the clever pairing of cultural iconography.)

My initial concern that this first program might try to give a broad overview of the series as a whole proved unfounded. Just as each chapter is a complete story, this hour stands on its own as well. But I'm quite sure it will leave listeners wanting to hear the rest of the series. And since I've already heard some of the stories featured in future episodes, I can tell you they won't be disappointed.

Ideal for May Asian American History month - ideal for any time, any where!