49 pages • 1 hour read
Yellow Face
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Book Brief
112
Play • Fiction
United States • 1990s
2007
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Yellow Face by David Henry Hwang follows DHH, a prominent playwright, who protests a yellowface casting in Miss Saigon, only to mistakenly cast a white actor as an Asian character in his own play Face Value. As he struggles to cover up this blunder, DHH navigates issues of cultural identity, artistic authenticity, and the marginalization of Asian Americans in the 1990s United States. The play contains content related to racism against Asian people.
Humorous
Contemplative
Mysterious
Informative
Reviews & Readership
1,511 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Yellow Face by David Henry Hwang is praised for its witty, insightful examination of race and identity in America, blending humor and serious themes effectively. Critics appreciate the sharp dialogue and bold narrative style. However, some feel its metafictional approach may be confusing or alienating for certain readers. Overall, it's a compelling, thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Yellow Face?
A reader who enjoys Yellow Face by David Henry Hwang is likely interested in exploring themes of race, identity, and cultural perception through satirical and thought-provoking narratives. Similar readers might appreciate works like Disgraced by Ayad Akhtar and M. Butterfly by the same author, which challenge social norms and prejudices.
1,511 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Marcus G. Dahlman (A.K.A. Marcus Gee)
Marcus G. Dahlman (A.K.A. Marcus Gee)
Marcus is a white actor mistakenly cast in an Asian role, challenging notions of cultural identity and authenticity within the play.
HYH
HYH
HYH is DHH’s father, representing generational views on assimilation and the American dream, often providing comic relief through his faith in capitalism.
112
Play • Fiction
United States • 1990s
2007
Adult
18+ years
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