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American Born ChineseGene Luen Yang

Young adult graphic fiction

American Born Chinese

by Gene Luen Yang

Three apparently separate stories follow Chinese American student Jin Wang, the legendary Monkey King, and a white teenager embarrassed by the visits of a grotesque racial stereotype. Jin longs to fit into a school where prejudice and self-consciousness make him reject parts of himself and hurt people close to him. Myth, comedy, and painful caricature eventually converge to reveal connections among the three narratives. Inventive and challenging, this graphic novel suits readers who appreciate coming-of-age stories, Chinese folklore, nonlinear structure, and candid examinations of racism, assimilation, shame, and the work of accepting one's identity.

Paired for this story

Peach Jasmine Tea + Orange-Kissed Brown Ale

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At a glance

Know what you're getting into

Spice1 of 5
Suspense3 of 5
Creepy1 of 5
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No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Racist stereotypes presented critically, bullying, and fighting

Alcohol-Free Pour

Peach Jasmine Tea

Floral tea and peach for a layered coming-of-age story.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Steep the tea and any herbs or whole spices in hot water according to the tea type, then strain. Stir in sweetener and juices. Chill and serve over ice.
  2. Garnish: Citrus peel, herb, or fruit from the recipe, if applicable.
  3. Glassware: Highball glass.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Orange-Kissed Brown Ale

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

A twist of orange wakes up the toasty warmth of English brown ale.

What you'll need

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Alcohol-shopping links are not shown on children's or young-adult book pages.

How to mix it

  1. Pour the beer into a pint glass and express the orange peel over the surface; add the peel if desired.
  2. Garnish: Orange peel.
  3. Glassware: Pint glass.

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