Invitation to Lead: Guidance for Emerging Asian American Leaders

by Paul Tokunaga

Book Overview

The nail that sticks out gets hammered down. This Japanese expression characterizes the attitude of many Asian Americans. We are often taught not to put ourselves forward--not to stick out. But the Western concept of leadership is all about stepping up and standing apart from the group. Is that appropriate for Asian Americans? Or can we lead out of our own cultural strengths rather than being pressed into the Western mold? Paul Tokunaga...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 083082393X
• ISBN13: 9780830823932
• Release Date: February 2003
• Publisher: IVP
• Length: 214 Pages
• Weight: 0.68 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.6" x 8.2"

Customer Reviews

Great

Great book on Asian American leadership. I think that some parts of the book rely a bit too much on the author's personal views (which tend to be based on stereotypes). However, the arguments are persuasive.

Finally, someone who addresses Asian American leaders

I'm about halfway through this book, but just reading the first few chapters, I could have sworn I was reading an auto-biography of myself. His experiences are just so close to what I've experienced and hit hard to where I am coming from. Every ethnicity has it's own issues and concerns that need addressing. Paul Tok really tackles this topic with a gusto and humility that make him very approachable. Even though he is Japanese American, his experiences mimic what most Asian Americans experience. From deferring to our parents to the ridiculous heights we hold education and prestige. He gives us perspective of how he deals with these issues along with dealing with other races. While this book is geared towards Asian Americans, I HIGHLY recommend leaders of other ethnicities to read this book. It truly shines a light on some of the issues facing Asian Americans and can give insight in how to relate to us.I had the pleasure of meeting Paul at Urbana 2003 during a workshop he gave on this very topic. Although I hadn't read his book at the time, (and I wish I did), he came across as someone who really wants to help and empathizes with the future leaders of this generation.

Recommended Rading for Asian American Ministry

If you are a non Asian in an Asian church, this book will help you understand more. As an Asian American, Tokunaga's book has helped me understand the impact of my culture on why I act the way I do. Good practical advice as well. I can't believe some of the mistakes Tokunaga admitted to but I guess his point is that God can use any of us. On page 199, he says that our young people are leaving the church because the church is irrelevant, stifling and ill-equipped. I think that may be only true on the surface and perhaps the real reason is that our youth are prodigals, looking for boy/girl friends and freedom. The Bible study questions from Moses and Esther are very useful.

Great insight from Paul Tok on Asian American leadership...

This book is a MUST read for all Asian Americans. Paul Tok's insight into Asian American culture and leadership styles is a great resource to anyone from pastors to lay church workers to people in a work setting. Highly recommended!

Very honest and personal... GREAT!!!

I haven't finished the book yet, but even half way through it, it really is a great book. The author shares his life very honestly and openly and shares great insight from his years of leading. I think there is a lot of struggle in being an Asian American leader and this book helps to verbalize and bring to light those struggles. Thanks Paul!