Book 1 Post 2
Book 1, Post 2
I chose American Like Me by America Ferrera because I was interested in hearing about other people’s diverse backgrounds and how they identify as being "American." As a Korean American growing up in Guam, I’ve often felt like I didn’t fully belong in either Korea or America, so I decided to read this book in hopes of connecting with others who may have had similar experiences. The book was inspiring because it allowed me to learn about different ethnic backgrounds and how individuals overcame the prejudices they faced while shaping their own identities. Although each story offers a unique perspective, many of their struggles and successes are relatable on a broader scale. The person whose story stood out to me was Randall Park.
Although Randall’s story doesn’t directly address the identity crisis I’m currently experiencing, I still found it relatable as we share a similar upbringing. Randall Park’s memoir mainly talked about his relationship with his parents. He mentioned that he never really knew his parents’ history. They rarely discussed their personal lives and primarily emphasized academics and hard work. It wasn’t until recently when he interviewed his parents for this memoir, that he learned about the struggles they faced as immigrants. He talks about how they still tried to maintain a stable life for their children while still mentioning the importance of education and hard work. Randall’s story hit closest to home.
With 32 essays in American Like Me, there are 32 people you might relate to in different ways. I would recommend this book to others, as there are many opportunities to connect with the stories and reflect on your own experiences alongside the authors. When I first picked it up, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I hoped it might help me face my own identity crisis. By the end, however, it left me feeling more introspective about my life and more appreciative of the experiences that have shaped me. It helped me realize that identity is complex and that it’s okay to embrace the journey without having all the answers.
Hi So Jun,
ReplyDeleteI also chose to read American Like Me as well. I can also relate to Randall's story with his parents, and his relationship with his parents. I like how you said that there are 32 people that we may relate to in different ways -- some way or another, I can relate to something in someone's story. I also liked how you said that the book helped you to have a better perspective of how your experiences shaped you.
I appreciated your review and viewpoint on the book, I also read the book and felt the same way! I appreciate that you said theres 32 people and 32 different possible essays to connect to, that was what felt so special about the book! I also like what you said about identity being a complex thing, there is not necessarily one answer for each individuals story and the complexity is part of the journey
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ReplyDeleteHi So Jung, thank you for sharing such a wonderful book review on American Like Me. Randall Park's story also resonated with me for the same reasons--I never really learned about my Mom's upbringing in Japan until I had to write a paper about it in high school. Your genuine reflections on your childhood in Guam and how your experiences align with those in the book show to prove how impactful this text truly is. I love how you mention that with 32 authors comes 32 uniquely compelling stories. When I read American Like Me, it was almost like checking tasks off of a to-do list, but this perspective makes me realize how much though and character was put into each chapter. Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI love the mini summary. With so many people in our class reading this book and also loving it I might need to give it a read. I think its really interesting that you are able to see the perspectives of 32 different people.
ReplyDeleteHi So Jung! It was so interesting hearing about your unique upbringing this morning in class, and now seeing your review has tied it all together! I like how you included someone who you related to in Randall Park! I think it's amazing that the book made you realize that your identity is complex, and even if you didn't find the exact answers you were looking for in the book, I love hearing how it helped with perspective and introspection!
ReplyDeleteHey So Jung! I love your review and agree that reading it as someone who grew up outside definitely a unique experience. I also thought it was cool how you brought up the 32 chapters 32 people to relate to part, I hadn't thought of it like that before.
ReplyDeleteHi So Jung! I felt the exact same way about the book. I loved how there was such a diversity in voice and we got to read stories about 32 different people. It almost felt conversational to me.
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