Real Americans

1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• Consider the novel’s portrayal of cultural differences between China and the United States and identify several ways in which the issue of alienation is addressed.
• Compare and contrast Lily’s narrative with May’s. What values does each woman hold, and how do they arrive at their hard-won convictions?
• How does the issue of genetic engineering complicate the existing social dynamics that obscure and erase Nick’s cultural status as a third-generation Chinese immigrant? 
• Consider the romance that arises between Lily and Matthew. How do issues of class intersect with cultural differences to create problems for both characters?
• Why does Lily separate Nick from Matthew and his family, and what long-term effects does this decision have on Nick’s psyche and development?
• Which of the three narrators experiences the strongest sense of cultural displacement? Support your analysis with examples from the text.

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

Connect the book’s themes and characters to personal experiences.

• Of the three narrators (Lily, Nick, and May), which character do you most strongly empathize with? Explain your reasoning.
• In your opinion, which character is the least sympathetic? Support your reasoning with several examples from the novel. 
• What is your personal stance on the topic of genetic engineering? In your opinion, is May justified in her decision to tamper with her child’s genetics? Why or why not?
• Analyze May’s definition of the titular phrase “real Americans.