On the one hand, the book presents a very interesting portrayal of the father's remorse. On the other hand, the book could have done more to define the son's time out West. It was frustrating in the sense that the son had no real motivation. Also it was very repetitive to the point of boredom.

This collection is like getting a box of Indian sweets. Some are brightly decorated but taste awful while others, the unadorned and overlooked, linger in the mouth long after. What is particularly admirable is that the collection attempts to address not only the South Asian diaspora post 1965 immigration reform, but also the diaspora born of indentured laborers in the Caribbean and beyond, addressing complicated questions of cultural authenticity and hegemony in the creation of a diasporic desi identity.

I just started to listening to 2 Dope Queens and reading this series of essays was the best accompaniment. Robinson is hilarious, honest and forthright about her experiences with race and entertainment. I even got some of the pop culture references. #callbacks

As a Muslim South Asian who grew up in three different countries, this book resonated with me. So much of the loss and confusion with identity the book presents, albeit through humor, represented my own experiences growing up. I wish that the book talked more about his experiences on the Daily Show and about being a spokesperson for Muslim Americans more, but overall a really nice read.

I loved Chang-Rae Lee's prosaic writing style with its dense contemplations on what it means to be an immigrant in America, what it means to truly try to assimilate into a hostile culture and what the process ends up costing the immigrant. It reminded me a lot of Lahiri's The Namesake plus a little bit of political conspiracy and spy action. However, the ending was abrupt and disarming, a little too convenient.

There were parts of this book I really really loved, especially the way she was able to combine ancient mythology with the modern day. I also liked the way she explored intricacies in family relationships, with Brave and Moon Orchid. The last chapter threw me, though, because it seemed reminiscent of my teenage days with an uncritical acceptance of American/ghost culture.