Plot Summary

The Wangs vs. the World

Jade Chang
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The Wangs vs. the World

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016

Book Brief

Jade Chang

The Wangs vs. the World

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

354

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

United States • 2000s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Wangs vs. the World by Jade Chang follows California businessman Charles Wang, an immigrant from China via Taiwan, who faces financial ruin after the 2008 financial crash. He gathers his family to reclaim their ancestral lands in China. As they journey across the United States, they confront personal challenges and reevaluate their identities, relationships, and hopes for the future.

Humorous

Bittersweet

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

3.5

19,595 ratings

43%

Loved it

38%

Mixed feelings

19%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Wangs vs. the World by Jade Chang is praised for its engaging humor, vibrant characters, and insightful examination of the immigrant experience and the American dream. Critics appreciate the fresh narrative voice, though some feel the plot meanders and certain character arcs lack depth. Overall, it's seen as a lively, thought-provoking debut with some structural flaws.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Wangs vs. the World?

Readers who enjoy humorous, character-driven family dramas like Kevin Kwan's Crazy Rich Asians or Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney's The Nest will find Jade Chang's The Wangs vs. the World compelling. This novel offers a satirical, poignant exploration of familial bonds, cultural identity, and the American dream.

3.5

19,595 ratings

43%

Loved it

38%

Mixed feelings

19%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

354

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

United States • 2000s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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