Many people helped with the creation of this book and I would like to extend my thanks to all of them. In particular, I owe a huge debt to my husband, Henry Chan, who not only listened patiently as Mei’s story unfolded, but who also was my translator, reading a whole year’s worth of The Chinese Times on microfilm, allowing me to build up a picture of what life was like in Vancouver’s Chinatown in 1923. In Vancouver, Larry Wong was a wonderful friend and resource, patiently listening to my endless questions and finding me the answers. The staff of Vancouver Public Library’s Infoact service did a marvellous job pulling together many primary sources; this was of particular use in finding out what school life would have been like for Mei. In Toronto, Paul Yee was generous with his time and expertise, reassuring me when I thought I had written myself into a corner! Finally, my thanks go to Anne Sarndall, who is always my first reader.
— G.C.