Parallels between the 3 stories in "American Born Chinese"

    In the graphic novel American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang, three stories are told to enhance the novel's central themes of identity, self-acceptance, and cultural assimilation. Readers get a glimpse into the life of Jin-Wang, an Asian American with immigrant parents, the Monkey King, a ruler rejected by gods, and Danny, a boy embarrassed by his cousin Chin-Kee.

    Jin-Wang's story is a coming of age tale that explores the challenges of growing up as a Chinese American in a predominantly white society. From the very beginning of his story on page 23, the reader can see that Jin-Wang is sad to be leaving Chinatown and moving to the suburbs. There is a tear streaming down his face as his mother talks about the move. Through his experiences, readers are exposed to various issues such as racism, stereotyping, and pressure to conform to mainstream American culture. On page 32 he is made fun of for the dumplings in his lunch and on page 38 he refuses to be friends with Wei-Chen Sun as he tries to fit in by isolating Wei-Chun as well. Jin's journey towards self-acceptance and embracing his heritage is hard for readers to process, but is a very real challenge that many Asian Americans face today.

    On the other hand, the story of the Monkey King serves as a metaphor for Jin's struggles. The Monkey King initially desires to be accepted by the other gods and become one of them, but is ultimately rejected because of his differences (15). This parallels Jin's desire to fit in with his white classmates, and his eventual realization that he should embrace his own identity rather than trying to change who he is to fit in with others. For the Monkey King, this means mastering the twelve major disciplines (60) but eventually going on a journey and embracing himself, including the removal of his shoes (160).

    Lastly, Danny's story ultimately serves to tie the three narratives together. Danny struggles with his own prejudices and preconceived notions about Asian culture.  He is extremely embarrassed by his cousin Chin-Kee, who often visits him. Danny opens up about how once he feels comfortable and settled at a school, Chin-Kee will visit and embarrass him with his accent and food, making him transfer schools. He feels that people end up not liking him due to his association with Chin-Kee (127). Through Danny's story, readers are able to see how harmful stereotypes and biases can lead to misunderstandings between people from different cultural backgrounds. In addition, Danny's story provides a narrative connection between the other two stories. His encounter with Jin Wang serves as a catalyst for both characters to confront their own biases and learn to appreciate and respect each other's differences.