Press & Testimonials

Testimonials, press mentions, and reviews of Pioneer Living videos and books:

"Straightforward and informative, these reassuring programs are a useful aid for both adult viewers and high school students. Series titles address specific groups, business etiquette, stereotypes, and health." -- Candace Smith, Booklist

"The video explains some elements of U.S. culture, and the host poses thought-provoking questions at the end to encourage discussion." -- Sarah Flowers, School Library Journal

"It will be an honor and a privilege to serve as host/narrator for your television project Pioneer Living Series. In itself is not merely an exciting panorama of our society's respective ethnic histories and the contributions to the make-up of the society's fabric face, but more importantly it is now high time that this subject matter be addressed indelibly for our future posterity. I am both proud and humbled to be a part of this entire experience." -- Noriyuki "Pat" Morita, Host, Pioneer Living Series

"Buoyed by her book's favorable response, Raimonda Mikatavage next approached PBS with the notion of packaging the book's ideas into a series of television programs. 'The goal is to feel included and accepted...unity in diversity, how we can work together well,' Mikatavage, herself an immigrant from Lithuania, packaged it in a lively, uplifting tone. The series features 100 guest speakers representing 40 different nationalities. "Pat" Morita's own interest in the subject stems from his experience as a child in a Japanese internment camp during World War II." -- article excerpt, Anna Isgro, Migration World

"References and information stimulate creative thinking and provide teachers with ways to incorporate life skills in their teaching." -- Jennifer Singer-Reed, Coordinator of Adult Literacy Services, Carroll County Public Schools, Maryland

"An informative and straightforward presentation of life and cultural issues. Full of useful advice and helpful resources on a wide range of important topics." -- Jim Kuh, Migration and Refugee Services, U.S. Catholic Conference

"This book will help you on your American journey." -- Jack Canfield, co-author of Chicken Soup for the Soul Series

"Our staff reviewed the literature and found your book most interesting. It should prove quite useful...to promote patriotism and loyalty to the United States...stresses positive work ethics...especially in dealing in a practical manner." -- E.B. Duarte, Jr., Branch Chief, Examinations Operations Facilitation Program, U.S. Department of Justice

"Some extremely valuable insights and explanations of cultural differences...expressed with neither hostility nor condescension." -- Amy Southwick, ESL teacher

"I'd recommend it as a resource for all teachers...the depth of the research and usefulness." -- Elizabeth Claire, Editor, Easy English News

"Signposts along the road to successful adjustment and promotes self-confidence." -- Patricia A. Hatch, Director of Community Relations & Resource Development

"Will help you find a new world, without losing yourself in it." -- Dr. Jonas Jasaitis, Editor

"Below is my answer to what single book I would require to be read by every person coming to the United States seeking citizenship, if I had the authority. Raimonda Mikatavage has written a book titled, Immigrants and Refugees, Create Your New Life in America, that is one of the most comprehensive and informative books available for newcomers to the United States." -- Martin G. Madden, Maryland Senate Republican Caucus, in response to a Baltimore Sun editorial

"I applaud your efforts to promote integration and inclusiveness." -- Lucille Roybal-Allard, Member of Congress, Chair, Livable Communities Task Force, Congressional Hispanic Caucus