Review on American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang, a graphic novel

I was browsing through the aisles at the library the other day when a bright yellow book caught my eye. I don’t care what people say—sometimes you can judge a book by its cover. This attractive cover featured a drawing of an Asian boy holding a Transformers-type toy while the title of the book American Born Chinese is displayed in the form of a traditional Chinese seal. The artwork and title of the graphic novel immediately piqued my interest.

Gene Luen Yang weaves together what at first appear to be three separate stories: the Chinese legend of the revered Monkey King; the story of a young Chinese boy named Jin growing up in a predominantly white school; and the account of a character named Chin-Kee, an embodiment of every cringe-worthy Asian stereotype.

The artwork and story development by Yang are brilliant. Humour is sprinkled throughout this graphic novel; a few passages even made me laugh aloud (luckily I was reading the book at home). The tale of Jin struck a chord with me as I’m sure it would with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, or wished they could be someone else. Yang’s depiction of what it’s like to grow up Asian in America is bang-on. His inclusion of modern day references such as Transformers, pearl milk tea and even movies such as Sixteen Candles help to develop a strong connection with the reader.

I always wanted to write a story about being a CBC (Chinese born Canadian). Too bad Gene Luen Yang beat me to the punch and is ten times more talented than I. American Born Chinese is an excellent read whether you are yellow, black, white or purple.