Book Launch: “The Riveter”

Join us for an evening with acclaimed author Jack Wang to celebrate the launch of his new book, The Riveter.

This powerful new work of fiction, meticulously researched and rich with historical detail, highlights the untold histories of Chinese Canadian veterans from WWII. Complementing the stories in our newly opened exhibition, A Soldier for All Seasons, The Riveter shines a light on the courage and sacrifices of a generation whose service helped shape and define the Chinese Canadian community. 

Take a special guided tour of A Soldier for All Seasons, then join author Jack Wang for a reading and conversation about The Riveter, followed by an audience Q&A and book signing. 

Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, July 10, 2025

• Location: Chinese Canadian Museum (51 E Pender St.)

• Schedule:
  6-7pm – Guided tour: A Soldier for All Seasons with Randall Wong, Chinese Canadian Military Museum president
  7-8pm – Book launch: The Riveter with author Jack Wang

• Cost: Free

• RSVP: Register here

*This event will be conducted primarily in English.

About The Riveter:

A cross-cultural love story set against the dramatic backdrop of the Allied invasion of Europe in WWII.

Vancouver, 1942. Josiah Chang arrives in the bustling city ready to serve his country in the war against fascism, but Chinese Canadians are barred from joining the army out of fear they might expect citizenship in return. So, Josiah heads to the shipyard to find work as a riveter, fastening together the ribs and steel plates of Victory ships.

One night, Josiah spots Poppy singing at a navy club. Despite their different backgrounds, they fall for each other instantly and begin a starry-eyed romance that lasts until the harsh reality of their situation is made clear. Determined to prove himself, Josiah takes a train to Toronto where he’s finally given the chance to enlist. After volunteering for the 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion and jumping into Normandy on D-Day, he must fight through the battlefields of Europe to make it back to the woman he loves. 

By turns harrowing and exhilarating, The Riveter explores what one man must sacrifice to belong to the only country he has ever called home.