49 pages • 1 hour read
Gloria ChaoAmerican Panda
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2018A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
American Panda by Gloria Chao follows the coming-of-age journey of 17-year-old Taiwanese American MIT student Mei Lu, who grapples with reconciling her parents' rigid cultural expectations and her own aspirations. As Mei navigates her dual identity, cultural pressures, and anxieties, she learns to balance her desire for independence with her family's traditions. This novel includes references to anti-Asian racism, cultural stereotypes, familial pressure and conflict, identity struggles, body shaming, and anti-gay bias.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Both praised and critiqued, American Panda by Gloria Chao captivates with its engaging portrayal of cultural identity and the Asian-American experience. Reviewers commend Chao's humor and authenticity, though some note predictable plot elements. Despite occasional pacing issues, the heartfelt narrative and relatable protagonist resonate deeply with readers.
Who Should Read American Panda?
Fans of To All the Boys I've Loved Before and Frankly in Love will enjoy American Panda by Gloria Chao. Ideal for readers interested in coming-of-age stories that blend cultural identity exploration with relatable family dynamics, humor, and the challenges of balancing personal dreams with parental expectations.
RecommendedReading Age
14-18yearsLexile Level
780L