4 stars
After a summer spent studying for Chinese school, playing soccer, and bonding with her grandmother visiting from Taiwan, Měi Yīng is excited to start fifth grade. But then she becomes the target of new kid Sid’s racist jokes. Should she ignore him like everyone suggests or stand up to his ignorance?
Great themes of intergenerational connections, family expectations, forgiveness, the importance of communication, and holding others accountable.
Měi Yīng deals with so much in this graphic novel. From the pressure of her mother’s expectations to feeling unsupported by her friends to being told she’s too sensitive in response to racism. Tsong nicely balances all of these topics so they don’t feel rushed or overwhelming.
A nice representation of the weight of microaggressions, overt racism, and bullying and the power of silence when someone is mistreated. Tsong nicely illustrates how ignorant comments, whatever their intention, impact others.
Great family dynamics. I love that Měi Yīng and Năi Nai were able to connect with each other through various activities and learn from one another. And the arc of Měi Yīng’s relationship with her mother was fantastic.
Wonderfully constructed. Beautiful messages about cultural identity, using your voice, and owning up to your mistakes.