A very well-drawn, and thoughtful graphic novel centered around a young Chinese-American boy as he goes through middle school on into high school. The novel juxtaposes the tale of the Monkey King and his attempts to become different, more than what he was, with that of the young man, Jin Wang (or Danny, as he renames himself). Embarrassed by everything about himself and seeking to change, Jin Wang seeks to assimilate as much as possible. Later, as Danny, he is constantly humiliated by visits from his imaginary cousin, Chin-Kee, who embodies all of the stereotypes from which Danny is attempting to distance himself.
I'm not usually a fan of books where the character's squirm-inducing shame plays a big role, and I did hurry through some sections, but the subject is handled well here, and there is real growth for Jin Wang. I liked it.
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