Read Aloud: Asian Characters Shine in Young Adult Literature!
In the realm of young adult literature, two captivating novels stand out for their exploration of identity, friendship, and the complexities of adolescence: "Warcross" by Marie Lu and "The Way You Make Me Feel" by Maurene Goo.
Warcross, published in 2017, reflects a near future where gamers could be superstars and gaming tournaments could outshine the Olympics. The story revolves around Emika Chen, a part-time waiter, bounty hunter, and hacker, who is offered a job by Hideo Tanaka, the creator of Warcross, to investigate a security risk. The novel presents a world where advanced VR technology transforms the gaming experience, creating a dominant virtual reality game that captivates millions.
On the other hand, "The Way You Make Me Feel" is a heartwarming and insightful exploration of the immigrant experience. The story follows Clara Shin, a Filipino American graduating senior who feels disconnected from her life. After a school incident, Clara is sentenced to community service, where she rebuilds connections and finds new love. The novel, filled with humor and heart, makes for an engaging beach read.
Clara Shin's relationships with her father and Rose Carver, a classmate, are central to the story. Her father runs a Korean Brazilian fusion food truck, while her mother is a globe-trotting influencer. Clara's difficult relationship with Rose Carver after a school prank goes wrong adds an extra layer of complexity to the narrative.
Meanwhile, in "Patron Saints of Nothing" by Randy Ribay, the plot revolves around the mystery of Jason Reguero's cousin's death, Jun, under suspicious circumstances in the Philippines, where Rodrigo Duterte's drug war is still ongoing. Jason's investigation brings him closer to his own culture and family. The book is a poignant exploration of the immigrant experience, delving into the challenges of maintaining connections with one's roots while navigating life in a foreign land.
In both novels, the characters face trials and tribulations that force them to confront their identities and cultural heritage. From Emika Chen, a bounty hunter and hacker in "Warcross", to Jason Reguero, a Filipino American graduating senior in "Patron Saints of Nothing", the protagonists grapple with their place in the world and their relationships with their families and communities.
"The Way You Make Me Feel" and "Patron Saints of Nothing" offer a deeper examination of the themes presented in "Warcross". While "Warcross" focuses on the world of gaming and virtual reality, the other two novels delve into the heart of human experiences, exploring themes of identity, cultural heritage, friendship, family, and young love.
In conclusion, both "Warcross" and "The Way You Make Me Feel" offer unique perspectives on the world of young adult literature. While "Warcross" presents a futuristic world of gaming, "The Way You Make Me Feel" and "Patron Saints of Nothing" offer insightful explorations of the immigrant experience and the complexities of adolescence. Each novel offers a compelling read, inviting readers to delve into the lives of relatable characters and explore themes that resonate with a wide audience.
Adults might find these captivating novels an enriching addition to their reading list for events, as they delve into essential discussions about identity, friendship, and adolescence. The lifestyle of these books extends beyond the pages, as they also tackle fashion-and-beauty, family, and cultural heritage. Technology plays a significant role in Warcross, sparking intrigue about the future of gaming and virtual reality. The novels, including books such as entertainment like movies or plays, serve as a thoughtful reflection on the human condition and the struggles faced by young adults. Volunteers for book clubs or readers seeking meaningful literature could find these books a worthy contribution to their entertainment.
