Real Americans: A novel

I am not normally a buyer of print books but this was a Jenna read and I was interested…glad I did because it is a must share. Was truly good to broaden my understanding of what person’s of color (Asians) experience in the US even when they are US born and raised. And the extend parents will go to to help their kids be accepted in the land of their birth.

"Real Americans" by Rachel Khong is a fascinating read. The characters are well-developed and really pull you into their world. The scientific aspect, especially the gene therapy for controlling diseases and human traits, adds a cool twist to the story. It makes you think about the possibilities and ethical dilemmas of genetic engineering.

However, the generational relationships can get a bit tangled. It jumps through the decades, which can be confusing at times. I had to jot down some notes to keep track of who's who and how they relate to each other. But once you get the hang of it, the storyline is rewarding and engaging.

What really stands out is how Khong blends science fiction with deep emotional themes. The book explores identity, legacy, and what it means to be truly "American" in a future shaped by genetic choices. Despite the occasional confusion with the timeline, the book’s blend of personal stories and futuristic concepts makes it a compelling read. If you’re into science fiction with a touch of family drama, this one's for you.

It begins with Chinese family, a couple of bio-engineering scientists who escape Mao’s regime. Their entry to the U.S. confronts them with incredible opportunity. But they are also subjected to the whims of foundations who support their research, sponsored by a very rich family.

A successful experiment leads to the dissolution of a marriage that is a merger of the Chinese immigrants and the old wealthy family from New York City that has supported their research. Some frightening consequences are theoretically now possible.

The third generation deals with the reality of what has been done, in the research labs of San Francisco and in the abject poverty of many aging immigrant families.

This tale is not in a straight line and it extends into the near future. Also, since this reviewer has a background in molecular biology, the author did not give a completely believable molecular scenario. Both of these issues keep the review from five stars.

It is a straightforward read and is particularly effective at bringing the lives of Chinese immigrants into focus.

An enjoyable read in the first half of the story, believable and well written for the most part. The author has a gift for pulling the reader into lives caught in the Chinese culture of poverty, powerlessness, oppression and subjugation of women, engendering male dominance. The book fell apart for me in its use of coincidences and dialogue among and from the Americans. Part 2 of the book was confusing and, at times, hard to believe. After May, the protagonist, escaped China and is living in America, it felt as though another lesser author began to write. I could not emotionally connect with the Americans or Chinese/Americans. The positive and negative traits of American characters did not develop understandable conflicts. Grudge holding and anger seemed to take precedence.