American Born Chinese (by Gene Luen Yang)
common sense media says
First graphic novel to win major child lit awards.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this graphic novel has received several literary awards and honors. And it's easy to see why: The art, clever storylines, and thoughtful messages about tolerance and acceptance mark it as a winner. There's some sexual innuendo, potty humor, fighting, and a fairly graphic scene in which a monk is impaled on a spear and put on a spit over a fire, though he's rescued. An intentionally over-the-top stereotypical Chinese character -- and every protagonist's search for acceptance -- make this a better fit for teen readers who have the sophistication to understand the author's intent.
Educational value:
Teens who read this book might be inspired to learn more about the Monkey King and may be inspired to learn about fables from China and other cultures. An over-the-top stereotypically Chinese character will give sophisticated readers something to talk about. Library Journal called Chin-Kee a "bitingly funny bundle of racist stereotypes" -- do you agree with this description? There are also a range of other topics that the book raises, from the value of graphic novels to the importance of acceptance. See our "Families Can Talk About" section for some ideas to get started.
Positive role models:
Teen readers will be able to relate to the protagonists' quest for acceptance, and readers with identities outside the mainstream will particularly appreciate their struggles.
Violence:
Several fights and punchings; a monk is impaled by a spear and prepared for roasting (he's saved).
Sex:
Some innuendo and nonspecific fantasies.
Language:
Characters are taunted with ethnic slurs.
Consumerism:
Fast food outlet mentioned.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
A character smokes.
More on American Born Chinese
Review It
Most useful reviews by all members
october1985
adult
adult
Funny graphic novel, may have some objectional content but it's fairly tame
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bradley4846
teen, 17 years old
teen, 17 years old
Bad, Just Bad
THis was the worst summer reading book ive ever read. It wasn't that it was innaproprite, it was just an odd book. The only thing good about it is it took me a half hour. There is some minor language
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Divine_Munchie_99
teen, 17 years old
teen, 17 years old
Not that racist
Not TOO racist. The whole stereotype thing is played for laughs. Take a chill pill, Common Sense! You really need it! Oh, and there's a scene where a guy pees on another guy's hand, which was in the form of 5 gold pillers.
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