Award-winning filmmakers Larissa Lam and Baldwin Chiu (aka Only Won) have signed a publishing deal with LSU Press to author a new book inspired by their acclaimed documentary Far East Deep South. The book will expand on the hidden history of Chinese immigrants in the American South while exploring broader themes of race, belonging, and Asian American identity.
The 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act—the first U.S. law to ban immigration based on race—had a profound impact on Chiu’s family, fracturing generations and shaping their lives in America. The book will explore this personal connection while shedding light on the broader historical context.
In addition, it will examine how Asian Americans have defined their identities across diverse regions of the U.S., including the Deep South.
“We are excited to partner with LSU Press to share these overlooked stories,” said Lam. “We hope to give readers a fuller understanding of America’s past and inspire them to uncover hidden histories in their own families and communities.”
Chiu added, “Discovering my grandfather and great-grandfather buried in Mississippi changed how I viewed my family’s place in the American story. This book connects personal journeys with historical truths to show both the challenges and resilience of immigrant communities.”
Building on the narrative of their award-winning 2020 documentary—which follows the Chiu family’s journey to Mississippi and uncovers unexpected intersections of race and segregation—the book will provide deeper historical context, amplify voices often left out of history books, and highlight how identity is shaped by both heritage and place.
The book is slated for release by LSU Press in 2026, with details on pre-orders and events to be announced. It is expected to resonate with educators, students, historians, and readers seeking to broaden their understanding of American history and explore the diverse stories that define the nation.
Lam and Chiu’s Far East Deep South aired nationally on PBS and World Channel. It is currently streaming on Prime Video, Apple TV, Tubi, Kanopy, and available for educational licensing through New Day Films.
About LSU Press
Founded in 1935, LSU Press is a leading academic and trade publisher recognized for works of scholarly and cultural significance, particularly in Southern history, literature, and culture.
About Larissa Lam and Baldwin Chiu
Larissa Lam is an award-winning filmmaker, music artist, and TV/radio host. Baldwin Chiu, also known as rapper and speaker Only Won, is a film producer and motivational speaker. Together, they created Far East Deep South, which has reached audiences worldwide and illuminated the vital role of Asian Americans in U.S. history.