This graphic novel STOMPS on stereotypes about Asian culture!
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Three stories start and ultimately converge in this award winning, Young adult Graphic Novel. First is the story of the Monkey King and his struggle to become an accepted deity. Next, Jin Wang must deal with stereotypes and pressures of being a Chinese American. He starts trying to become more and more white to fit in with his peers. Lastly is the story of Danny, a average white american whose Chinese cousin comes to visit every year. His cousin, Chim Kee, embodies all the stereotypes of being a F.O.B. (Fresh off the Boat) proudly. He is super smart, has a thick accent, and eats "clispy flied cat gizzards wiff noodle" for lunch. At the end of the story, we find that Jin Wang was transformed into Danny because of his yearning to become white. His cousin, Chim Kee, is the Monkey King sent back to show Jin Wang the error of his ways. Both, Danny and the Monkey King must learn to accept themselves for who they are. This is the ultimate theme within the story and it is an hilarious journey. No wonder this novel is the Winner of the Printz award and finalist for the National Book Association.
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| Original Sketch for Chim Kee |
This novel would be an interesting starting point for high school students to discuss negative stereotypes of any race. Knowledge is key. It is important for students to call out these stereotypes for the inaccurate portraits of culture that they portray. I believe that each culture should be valued for its wonderful contribution to society.
Included are two of my favorite pages from the novel. Enjoy! (I know I did)
This graphic novel STOMPS on stereotypes about Asian culture!
This book seems really interesting. When you first showed us the book for your book talk, I thought it was a Manga type book. This book is definitely better than that. This seems like a very good book to have high schoolers read concerning stereotypes. You definitely interested me in the book. Great review!
ReplyDeleteThis book seems like it would be a wonderful way to teach students about stereotypes. It would be accessible to students since it is in the style of a graphic novel. I am definitely of the school of thought that pictures make every story better!! This sounds like a very enjoyable read.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this book!