Roads Into and Out of Chinatown

Roads Into and Out of Chinatown is the story of Dr. Annie Chin Siu, a pioneer Chinese American woman orthodontist. Annie describes her early years in an immigrant family with 7 children in San Francisco's Chinatown in the 1930's and 40's. Through hard work, perseverance, and emphasis on education, the family improved their social position. Their lives were difficult growing up in Chinatown but the family worked together and supported each other. Annie Siu is a trailblazer. She was the only woman in the University of California San Francisco Dental School 1950 freshman class, and the first Chinese woman in the dental school ever. Unable to find someone who would hire a Chinese American orthodontist, she opened her own office in Alhambra. While maintaining her successful practice, she raised four daughters. Annie and her lifetime partner, Tim Siu, developed a giving spirit. Both of them became community leaders in many local and Chinese American organizations. Her lifelong commitment and dedication to her community has positively impacted the lives of many people. Annie's commitment to hard work is exemplified by the writing of this book. She knew she had a story to tell and she learned the skills to tell this story with care, humor, and wisdom. Annie is a pioneer in so many ways; she is an inspiration to all of us.