49 pages • 1 hour read
American Panda
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Book Brief
336
Novel • Fiction
Boston, Massachusetts • Contemporary
2018
YA
14-18 years
780L
Super Short Summary
American Panda by Gloria Chao follows the coming-of-age journey of 17-year-old Taiwanese American MIT student Mei Lu, who grapples with reconciling her parents' rigid cultural expectations and her own aspirations. As Mei navigates her dual identity, cultural pressures, and anxieties, she learns to balance her desire for independence with her family's traditions. This novel includes references to anti-Asian racism, cultural stereotypes, familial pressure and conflict, identity struggles, body shaming, and anti-gay bias.
Humorous
Romantic
Emotional
Heartwarming
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
10,214 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Both praised and critiqued, American Panda by Gloria Chao captivates with its engaging portrayal of cultural identity and the Asian-American experience. Reviewers commend Chao's humor and authenticity, though some note predictable plot elements. Despite occasional pacing issues, the heartfelt narrative and relatable protagonist resonate deeply with readers.
Who Should Read American Panda?
Fans of To All the Boys I've Loved Before and Frankly in Love will enjoy American Panda by Gloria Chao. Ideal for readers interested in coming-of-age stories that blend cultural identity exploration with relatable family dynamics, humor, and the challenges of balancing personal dreams with parental expectations.
10,214 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mama Lu and Mr. Lu/Baba
Mama Lu and Mr. Lu/Baba
Mei and Xing's Taiwanese immigrant parents, who uphold traditional Chinese values and have set high expectations for their children, often clashing with Mei's personal desires.
Darren Takahashi
Darren Takahashi
Mei's love interest and fellow biology student at MIT; he is a third-generation Japanese American who introduces Mei to the campus culture and encourages her to pursue her passions.
Xing Lu
Xing Lu
Mei's older brother who has been disowned by the family for his marriage choices, yet remains a successful doctor and provides support and understanding to Mei in her struggles with their parents.
336
Novel • Fiction
Boston, Massachusetts • Contemporary
2018
YA
14-18 years
780L
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