logo

54 pages 1 hour read

Typical American

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1991

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Gish Jen

Typical American

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1991
Book Details
Pages

296

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1950s

Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Typical American by Gish Jen follows the lives of Chinese immigrants Ralph, Theresa, and Helen as they navigate American culture and strive for success while dealing with personal conflicts and integration into society. They face struggles with consumerism, cultural adaptation, and internal family dynamics, all set against the backdrop of their immigrant experience in the United States. The novel addresses domestic violence.

Humorous

Challenging

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

3.7

1,885 ratings

49%

Loved it

36%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Reviews of Gish Jen's Typical American highlight its sharp exploration of the immigrant experience with a blend of humor and poignancy. Critics praise Jen's engaging prose and insightful character development. However, some note a perceived lack of depth in certain plot developments. Overall, the novel is commended for its thoughtful portrayal of cultural assimilation and identity.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Typical American?

Readers who enjoyed The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan or The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri will appreciate Gish Jen's Typical American. This novel appeals to those interested in immigrant experiences, culture clash, and the pursuit of the American Dream, with a blend of humor and poignant family dynamics.

3.7

1,885 ratings

49%

Loved it

36%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

296

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1950s

Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.