1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Yang, Gene Luen. 2006. AMERICAN BORN CHINESE. Ill. by Gene Luen Yang. New York: Square Fish. ISBN 0-312-38448-3
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This plot revolves around three interrelated stories about young Chinese Americans trying to fit in the popular culture.
3. CRITCAL ANALYSIS
Yang takes three seemingly separate stories and eventually weaves them all into one amazing look into the Chinese culture. One tale is a traditional Chinese folktale with a few details tweaked. The second tale is of a second generation Chinese boy and we follow him through his life. The third is about an American boy who has a stereotypical Chinese cousin who visits every year.
There are many themes in this book: self-acceptance, overcoming obstacles, and friendship. Not only that, but the story is told in full color cartoon drawings as this is a graphic novel. The graphic novel is fast becoming popular in America and Yang makes good use of it here.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Winner of the 2007 Michael L. Printz Award
Review in PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: “Yang accomplishes the remarkable feat of practicing what he preaches with this book: accept who you are and you'll already have reached out to others.”
Review in BOOKLIST: “The stories have a simple, engaging sweep to them, but their weighty subjects––shame, racism, and friendship––receive thoughtful, powerful examination.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Open up a discussion about being an American, but having strong cultural roots in a different country. Does it make life harder for them, or do they embrace it? What are some of the differences in cultures they have to deal with?
* Other books by this author:
Yang, Gene Luen. Prime Baby. ISBN 9781596436121
Yang, Gene Luen. Loyola Chin and the San Peligran Order. ISBN 1593620055
Yang, Gene Lune. Gordon Yamamoto and the King of the Geeks. ISBN 0943151953
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