A review by mppilk
Real Americans by Rachel Khong

emotional hopeful informative reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

A multi generational story of a Chinese American family and belonging. The story begins with Lily, born to a couple of Chinese scientists but reared in the all American way. Working as a low paid intern in a New York firm and meets the wealthy nephew of her boss. This section of the book was my least favourite part. Came across as the same old poor girl rescued by a billionaire and trying to adjust to spending money. But stick with it as part 2 tells the story of their son, Nico or Nick as he became known and the best was kept until last. The story of Lily’s mother May. Born and raised in China and studying biology as the communist era began. 
This is a remarkable story of family dysfunction, belonging, friendships and science. Each story draws in the reader but didn’t quite satisfy. There are large jumps in the story that left me a little perplexed and I would have liked to find out more about Matthew’s take on the situation. 
I would thoroughly recommend this book. 

Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC