June 2025 release.

Old Gold Mountain - New Gold Mountain: Diaspora to North America and Australia

Gāu Gām Sāan 舊金山 - Sān Gām Sāan 新金山

This intriguing book delves into the transformative nineteenth-century gold rushes that enticed countless young Chinese men to venture to America and Australia. The Chinese diaspora profoundly impacted the economic, cultural, and social landscapes of these emerging nations. The narrative intricately weaves the tales of hardship and determination that characterized the lives of these pioneers, shedding light on the tribulations they encountered as they sought fortunes on Old Gold Mountain (Gāu Gām Sāan) in North America and New Gold Mountain (Sān Gām Sāan) in Australia.

The author brings a depth of insight to this exploration, drawing on personal experiences and a deep cultural connection. Having lived in such diverse locales as Melbourne, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, and Portland, the author offers a unique vantage point enriched by stories of his grandparents’ life in Shanghai and Ballarat, cherished friendships with Chinese people, and Chinese language studies at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. His research, augmented by visits to gold rush museums and Chinatowns in California, the Pacific Northwest, Victoria and New South Wales, lends authenticity and nuance to his storytelling. From the perspective of a gwáilóu, the author offers a deeply empathetic examination of Old Gold Mountain and New Gold Mountain.