Essential Questions:

1.  In what ways is Maxine Hong Kingston's story unique to Chinese Americans and universal to many individuals?

2.  Describe how Kingston extends and problematizes the role of women in society. 

3.  What motifs are apparent in this autobiographical story?  And, how do they extend the meaning of the text?

4.  Consider the structure of the novel, with particular interest paid to chapter two, "White Tigers". 

5.  In what ways is Kingston's novel simultaneously accurate and outdated in her presentation of China?

6.  What is the difference between autobiography and memoir? 

Useful Links: 

Read a thorough biography of Maxine Hong Kingston's life and works as part of NCTE's American Authors website.

Learn about Chinese Culture as it is displayed in Disney's Mulan  (A seemingly fun, and sneakily educational, website). 

Visit an interesting website on Ancient Chinese Culture with a cheat sheet to help you see how dynasties relate to one another.

Peruse an extremely thorough essay on Hong Kingston's life choices and her writing. 

Contemplate the thorough list of reading questions half-way through this webpage.

Read an interview with Maxine Hong Kingston.

Updated February 27, 2007.