American Panda (utgåvan 2018)

Mei is attending MIT while trying to cope with her ultra-strict parents. They want her to be a doctor; she's a germaphobe. This is a great story about growing up and gaining independence. An added layer is the cultural clash between traditional Taiwanese customs and superstitions and the more progressive American outlook. Mei was a very well written character who is clearly torn between being an obedient child and wanting to find happiness. The author's personal experiences clearly informed her writing and felt very real and authentic. In some ways it's a very typical story but the representation and expansion of the definition of "typical" is refreshing and beneficial to everyone. No one is completely alone, even if you don't realize it at the time. ( )

Mei is supposed to be a doctor, that will be quite hard since she is a germaphobe. Her parents have high expectations for her since they disowned her brother for falling in love with a woman who may not be able to have children. Wow, that reads as awful doesn't it. Mei thinks so too, but she is trapped by guilt. She's in her first year at MIT, a year early. So much is going on that she is lying to her parents about while she tries to figure out how to possibly be herself.

Mei's struggles and triumphs are often cultural, but I feel like so many students can identify with the parental pressure she is feeling. I'm wishing I had read this earlier in the year. I'll be handing it to several students in the fall. ( )

Mei! This book was lots of fun, with definite cringeworthy moments, humor, and romance all mixed together. It's still not my favorite genre; I've read a lot of YA realistic stuff this year, but even when I like it, I'd rather be reading something else. But if you DO like this genre (like so many of our teens), you shouldn't miss this one. ( )

3.5 stars

This was soft and sad and sweet and I enjoyed it. The writing style just felt a little... juvenile? Which didn't really fit with the overall tone of the book?

RTC maybe? ( )

I normally don’t comment on books, but this was ADORABLE. I ABSOLUTELY love it! Highly recommended for American children who have grown up with different cultures! ( )