Hong, M. (1995). Growing up as Asian American. Avon Trade Paperbacks.

OVERVIEW

This book, comprised of short stories, offers keen insight into the life of Asian Americans. The anecdotes are divided into three sections: "First Memories," "The Beginnings of Identity," and "Growing Up."

"First Memories" includes numerous early childhood stories relating what it was like to grow up being very different from your friends and neighbors. For example, it is noted that people often look at Asian Americans strangely. Also, the stories share that young Asians often speak with an accent; yet, with authority figures, they are often not allowed to speak—an act of respect to adults. Even at this stage, differences are recognized and friends do not necessarily accept young Asians.

The "Beginnings of Identity" focuses on the soul searching stage in life, adolescence. It is traumatic for an Asian teen to live in a culture where there are few who share Asian features and values. With whom can one relate? Where are the role models? There is also great pressure from parents to succeed in school. Asian students are expected to earn straight As; if the Asian child fails in school, he or she shames one’s parents. Additionally, there is intense pressure to maintain one’s own culture and while trying to acculturate into the new society. Extracurricular activities like Chinese School and music lessons were part of almost every Asian childhood, but in a new culture, they are nowhere to be found. Amidst the confusion and demands from parents, how does the Asian adolescent secure his or her identity?

"Growing Up" tells ten stories of different Asian Americans’ young adult experiences in the United States. It is difficult to be raised by Asian values while living in American culture. Often, the stories resonate with each other. How does one balance the values instilled by one’s parents while trying to assimilate into a society that teaches alternate ways of decision making, morals, and day to day living? It is apparent that the authors of these short stories did not have an easy time assimilating.

AUTHOR’S CONCLUSION

As an Asian American, choosing between my own Chinese culture and the United States culture in which I live has benefits and drawbacks. It is an incredible opportunity to be exposed to two ways of life. Having certain freedoms and rights in the U.S. that were unavailable in Asia is a real asset. At times I found being bicultural a bonus, especially in my field of work. Customers in my line of work prefer to work with people of a similar background who understand the culture into which they are trying to transition. However, being bicultural was a drawback was during my adolescent years. It was hard trying to "fit in" and still be Chinese. It was tough to have Chinese parents who were less understanding than the TV parents like the Bradys or the Huxtables.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION AND DISCUSSION

1. How can this book help an Asian American youth?
2. Are the struggles mentioned in the book similar to those of Asian American youth with whom you interact? Are the benefits similar?
3. How can this book help the parent of an Asian American student?

IMPLICATIONS

It is essential for youth workers to recognize the unique challenges of balancing two cultures. Young people attempting to reconcile the two need encouragement and support. Parents of these young people also need guidance. Be prepared to help them and match them with appropriate resources. There is much to learn from and teach these families.