To the Stars: The Autobiography of George Takei

George Takei's autobiography chronicles his path from a childhood in Japanese American internment camps to becoming a groundbreaking Asian American actor and activist. The memoir begins with his family's forced relocation during World War II and follows their eventual return to Los Angeles. The narrative tracks Takei's journey through education at UC Berkeley, his decision to pursue acting, and his breakthrough role as Mr. Sulu on Star Trek. It provides an inside look at the entertainment industry of the 1960s and beyond, including his experiences on the Star Trek set and his relationships with fellow cast members. The book documents Takei's parallel careers in acting and political activism, showing how his early experiences shaped his commitment to social justice. His story encompasses both personal milestones and professional achievements, from early television roles to later success in film. This memoir stands as both a Hollywood story and a vital historical document, examining the intersection of entertainment, politics, and Asian American identity in the 20th century.

Readers appreciate Takei's candid account of his childhood in Japanese internment camps and his rise as an Asian-American actor in Hollywood. Many note his balanced tone - neither bitter nor sensationalized - when discussing discrimination and challenges. Readers highlight: - Detailed insights into Star Trek production and casting - Personal stories about breaking racial barriers in entertainment - Discussion of Japanese-American history - Writing style that feels conversational and honest Common criticisms: - Some sections move slowly - Less Star Trek content than expected - Could have explored certain periods of his life more deeply Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (1,890 ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (168 reviews) Reader quote: "Takei tells his story with grace and humor, making even difficult subjects accessible without diminishing their importance." - Goodreads reviewer Multiple readers note they finished the book with a deeper understanding of both Hollywood's evolution and Japanese-American experiences in the 20th century.

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★ At age 5, George Takei and his family were forced into the Rohwer War Relocation Center in Arkansas, one of ten internment camps where Japanese Americans were imprisoned during WWII. ★ Before landing his iconic role as Sulu on Star Trek, Takei worked as a tour guide at Universal Studios and did voiceover work for the English dubs of Japanese monster movies. ★ The original Star Trek series made history by featuring one of television's first multiracial casts, with Takei's character Hikaru Sulu representing Asian Americans in a non-stereotypical role. ★ Following his father's example of civic engagement, Takei ran for Los Angeles City Council in 1973 and served on the board of directors of the Southern California Rapid Transit District. ★ Takei publicly came out as gay in 2005 at age 68, after then-California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a same-sex marriage bill, marking a new chapter in his activism for LGBTQ+ rights.