Book excerpt: This book consists of tributes written by friends, colleagues, teachers, students and family members of Professor Shu Chien on the occasion of his 70th birthday, which was celebrated in San Diego, California on 23 June 2001, and in Taipei, Taiwan on 12 August 2001.A collection of articles was submitted prior to and following these events. Together with the precious, memorable photographs, these articles provide a valuable summary of the life and deeds of this internationally acclaimed scientist who has made major impacts in the United States, mainland China and Taiwan OCo indeed, the whole world. In response to these excellent, moving articles, Professor Shu Chien has written a piece that encompasses his entire life, from early childhood to the present. This book constitutes a most valuable biography, full of sentiment and inspiration."