Only rarely does a personal narrative succeed in providing fresh insight about the large currents of history defining our present moment. Yet that is precisely what Vishakha Desai has given us in World as Family. In recounting her story of evolution and self-discovery across continents and cultures, Professor Desai addresses profound questions about identity and belonging and offers a singular rebuttal to surging nationalism and anti-immigrant sentiments. What we are left with, ultimately, is a compelling vision of an open and expansive global society.–Lee C. Bollinger, President and Seth Low Professor of the University, Columbia University