Originally published in 1996 (Allen & Unwin), this work demonstrates the range of Chinese interactions with Southeast Asian societies. It examines ethnic, national, and cultural identities, migration patterns and demographics, and economic issues, with chapters on creolized Chinese societies in Southeast Asia, modern Thai social formations and Chinese historical romance, letters from an ocean Hang merchant to the Dutch authorities in Batavia (1803-09), and ancestral halls, funeral associations, and attempts at resinicization in 19th-century Netherlands India. B&w historical illustrations are included. Reid is professor and director of the Center for Southeast Asian Studies at the University of California. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)