Laurence Yep's Ribbons skillfully explores cultural identity and intergenerational relationships through a compelling narrative. The novel is praised for its vivid characterization and emotional depth. However, some readers find the plot predictable and wish for more nuanced cultural insights. Overall, it's lauded for fostering empathy and understanding among young audiences.

A reader who would enjoy Ribbons by Laurence Yep is likely interested in multicultural stories and family dynamics. They would appreciate Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai and Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan, which both explore themes of identity, cultural struggle, and personal growth.

Ribbons by Laurence Yep explores the complex relationship between a young girl passionate about ballet and her grandmother who has come from China. As cultural differences and family sacrifices unfold, the girl navigates feelings of frustration and understanding, leading to personal growth and familial reconciliation.

Emotional / Contemplative / Bittersweet / Heartwarming / Nostalgic

**Robin**  
An 11-year-old girl living in San Francisco, who is passionate about ballet and struggles to balance her love for dance with family expectations after her grandmother moves in.

**Grandmother/Paw-Paw**  
Robin and Ian's maternal grandmother who emigrated from Hong Kong; she has a complex relationship with Robin due to cultural and personal challenges, including her history with footbinding.

**Mom/Elaine**  
Robin and Ian's mother, originally from China, who works as a public interest attorney in San Francisco and is deeply committed to family obligations, especially towards her own mother.

**Dad/Gilbert**  
Robin's father, a documentary filmmaker who supports Robin's ballet interests and often feels like an outsider in the family's cultural dynamics as he lacks a Chinese heritage.

**Ian**  
Robin's younger brother, who initially bonds easily with their grandmother, highlighting cultural differences and gender preferences within the family.

Laurence Yep

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Ribbons reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Ribbons | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Ribbons and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Ribbons Summary and Study Guide

Background

Ribbons Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

Ribbons Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-7

Ribbons Chapters 4-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-10

Ribbons Chapters 8-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-15

Ribbons Chapters 11-15 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Ribbons Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Ribbons Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Ribbons Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Ribbons Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Ribbons Essay Topics

Ribbons

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Ribbons?

Reading Age

Book Details