Louis Chu

Louis Hing Chu (born October 1, 1915) was a pioneer of Asian American literature with his only published work Eat a Bowl of Tea.

Immigrating to New Jersey from Toishan, China, Chu completed a high school education and followed to receive a bachelor's degree from Upsala College and a Masters degree in sociology from New York University.

Aside from writing, Chu also worked for the New York City's Department of Welfare, Soon Yoon Benevolent Society and worked as the disc jockey for the Chinese Festival radio program.

Chu died in 1970 leaving behind his wife, four children and three grandchildren. Chu never witnessed the impact of Eat a Bowl of Tea. Though the novel was originally published in 1961, it was not received well by critics. It wasn't until the novel was republished in 1979 that it was acknowledged as a pioneering contribution to Asian American literature.

References

  • Chan, Jeffery. Introduction. Eat a Bowl of Tea. University of Washington Press.
  • Shih, David. "Eat a Bowl of Tea by Louis Chu." A Resource Guide to Asian American Literature. 46