Typical American

Ralph Chang works hard to make his American dream an American reality with varying degrees of success. To what extent do you agree with the suggestion that Ralph is a hero?

Helen dedicates her life to her children and revels in the domestic life she helps create. Discuss how Helen’s identity depends on her family and her home.

Theresa, Ralph, and Helen all lose their parents to political upheaval in China. What impact does the absence of the characters’ parents have on their behavior?