American Born Chinese

by Gene Luen Yang and Lark Pien
American Born Chinese cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Graphic Novels / Comics
Technical:
  • ID: 1684
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-10-08
  • ISBN: 9783986661304
  • Published: 2023-04-19
  • Formats: 5
  • Reviews: 3
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Format • £12.34

American Born Chinese is a unique and powerful graphic novel that combines humor, drama, and fantasy to tell a story about the immigrant experience and the struggle for self-identity. The novel is divided into three interconnected narratives that eventually converge in a surprising and meaningful way. The first story follows Jin Wang, a Chinese-American boy who faces racism and struggles to fit in at school. The second story is a retelling of the legend of the Monkey King, a figure from Chinese folklore. The third story is about a white teenager named Danny, who is embarrassed by his cousin Chin-Kee, a stereotypical Chinese character. Through these stories, the author explores themes of identity, cultural assimilation, and the search for belonging. The novel's innovative format and rich artwork make it a standout in the genre of graphic novels.

Reviews
Los Angeles Times · 2023-05-24
great 4.25

The story explores themes of cultural heritage and identity with depth and sensitivity.

This review highlights the book's exploration of a young man's struggle with his cultural heritage and identity. The reviewer notes that the story is both personal and universal, resonating with readers who have experienced similar challenges. The narrative is praised for its sensitivity and depth, making it a powerful and relatable read.

Quick quotes

    It's a story about a young man who is struggling with his own cultural heritage, with the way he looks, with the language his parents speak.

    A poignant and timely exploration of identity and belonging.

    The book's themes are universal and deeply resonant.

Sonderbooks · 2008-05-27
fantastic 4.75

The graphic novel format enhances the story, making it more impactful than a traditional novel would be.

The reviewer appreciates how the author effectively uses the graphic novel format to tell a compelling story. They believe that the visual elements add depth and richness to the narrative, making it more engaging and memorable. The reviewer also praises the beautiful artwork and vibrant coloring, which contribute significantly to the overall reading experience.

Quick quotes

    This book is done beautifully.

    The author uses the graphic novel form in a way that makes the story better than it would be as a regular novel.

    The artwork is stunning, and the vibrant coloring adds a lot to the story.

Goodreads · 2006-09-01
excellent 4.50

The book is praised for its hilarious, poignant, and action-packed storytelling that weaves together three seemingly unrelated tales with an unexpected twist.

This graphic novel is celebrated for its unique structure and engaging narrative. The reviewer highlights how the three distinct stories come together in a surprising and satisfying way, making the book both entertaining and thought-provoking. The blend of humor, action, and poignant moments creates a rich and layered reading experience that resonates with readers.

Quick quotes

    These three apparently unrelated tales come together with an unexpected twist, in a modern fable that is hilarious, poignant and action-packed.

    A modern classic that deserves a place in every middle school classroom and library.

    A brilliant, thought-provoking exploration of identity and belonging.

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