by Glenda Chung Hinchey

Like a Joyful Bird is a memoir of a third-generation Korean-American woman, born and raised in Hawaii. My story begins with the adventures of my grandparents, who emigrated from Korea to Hawaii, and the interesting lives of my parents and siblings. It then follows the twists and turns of my life which took me from a provincial childhood in Honolulu to a journey around the world ... from being a swinging bachelorette to being a devoted wife and mother ... from practicing my violin every day to writing at my computer. Like a Joyful Bird takes an upbeat look at my experiences and the people who have crossed my path. Some of these personal essays and anecdotes were previously published in the Honolulu Star-Bulletin and The Honolulu Advertiser.

So, here they are. IÂ'm delighted to share my memories in Like a Joyful Bird. Perhaps, my recollections will jog the memories of other Korean-Americans. Hopefully, you, the reader, will appreciate the gentle humor that weaves through the serious strands of my story, and the many photographs taken along the way.

—Glenda Chung Hinchey