73 pages 2 hours read

Gene Luen Yang

American Born Chinese

Fiction | Graphic Novel/Book | Middle Grade | Published in 2006

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang interweaves three stories: the Monkey King's quest for self-acceptance, Jin Wang's struggles with his Chinese American identity and fitting in at a predominantly White school, and Danny's embarrassment by his cousin Chin-Kee, who embodies harmful Asian stereotypes; these narratives converge, addressing identity, assimilation, and cultural heritage. The book contains racist and offensive language used to illustrate the harm caused by stereotypes.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang is lauded for its compelling storytelling and innovative blend of Chinese folklore with modern American life, making it an effective medium to discuss identity and assimilation. Critics praise its engaging art and resonant themes, though some mention that its heavy-handed approach to moral lessons can feel simplistic. An insightful and educational read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read American Born Chinese?

A reader who enjoys American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang is typically interested in graphic novels, coming-of-age stories, and themes of cultural identity and acceptance. Fans of Marjane Satrapi's Persepolis and Art Spiegelman's Maus would appreciate its narrative style and depth.

Recommended

Reading Age

12-18years

Book Details

Genre

Allegory / Fable / Parable

Coming of Age / Bildungsroman

Chinese Literature

Topics

Bullying

Race / Racism

History: Asian

Themes

Identity: Race

Life/Time: Coming of Age

Society: Immigration