73 pages • 2 hours read
Gene Luen YangAmerican Born Chinese
Fiction | Graphic Novel/Book | Middle Grade | Published in 2006A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
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
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 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.
RecommendedReading Age
12-18yearsBook Details
Allegory / Fable / Parable
Coming of Age / Bildungsroman
Chinese Literature
Bullying
Race / Racism
History: Asian
Identity: Race
Life/Time: Coming of Age
Society: Immigration