American Born Chinese

Fiction | Graphic Novel/Book | Middle Grade | Published in 2006

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Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read Beta

Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Sections 1-3

Sections 4-6

Sections 7-9

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

A bildungsroman is a work of literature that traces a protagonist as he, she, or they come of age. In what ways does American Born Chinese meet the definition of a bildungsroman?

The author’s use of American colloquialisms contrasts with the formal speaking manner of Tze-Yo-Tzuh, the creator of the universe. How does language help develop the characterization of different individuals in the novel?

Select three Asian stereotypes embodied by the character of Chin-Kee and break down the offensive nature of each one in detail. Explain why each stereotype is damaging to people of Asian heritage using evidence from the novel to support your response.