by Russell Freedman, this title takes a close look at the gateway to America that thousands of immigrants went through in the 1800 and 1900’s. A park ranger working on the island in the San Francisco Bay (near Alcatraz). noticed the abandoned building filled with foreign (mostly Chinese) writing on the walls. Recognizing its value and significance to history, in the 1970’s, this man began an effort to preserve the building. The writings turned out to be poetry and journal writings of the immigrants (many thought of themselves as prisoners) stationed there waiting to find out if they’d be allowed to enter America or sent back home. The black and white photographs support the text well. The writing is simple and absorbing. Freedman makes you want to take a trip to San Fran and visit!
