A review by neglet
American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang

challenging emotional funny reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
Fascinating three-part structure, each part featuring a character struggling with acceptance. The Monkey King wants to become a god; second-generation Chinese American Jin is trying to fit in at his school; and in a sitcom filled with the worst, horribly racist stereotypes, Danny struggles with a visit from his cousin "Chin-kee." The way these three threads are finally brought together is brilliant, providing strong commentary on the struggle many Asian Americans have when pursuing acceptance in America. It's also much darker and the language and imagery much stronger than the Disney adaptation, fair warning!
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