Growing up as a Chinese-American in 1970s America
The novel delves into the experiences of the Lee family, a Chinese-American family living in a small Ohio town in the 1970s, grappling with issues of racism, cultural identity, and a sense of belonging. James Lee, the father, still carries insecurities from growing up as a Chinese boy in 1950s America, facing discrimination and racism, which he inadvertently passes on to his children.

Unrealistic Parental Expectations
A central theme is the unrealistic expectations placed on Lydia, the favorite child, by her parents. Marilyn, Lydia's mother, pins her unfulfilled dreams of becoming a doctor on Lydia, while James wants her to be popular and socially successful. This burden of expectations ultimately contributes to Lydia's inner turmoil and tragic fate.

Loneliness and Isolation
The characters in the novel feel a profound sense of loneliness and isolation, stemming from their inability to communicate openly and understand each other. Nath and Lydia have no friends at school, feeling like outcasts. Even within the family, the children feel neglected and misunderstood by their parents, who are consumed by their own issues and expectations.

Secrets and Silence
The novel explores the damaging impact of secrets and silence within the family. Each character harbors secrets, from Marilyn's resentment about her unfulfilled ambitions to James's affair and Nath's potential homosexuality. This lack of honest communication leads to misunderstandings, resentment, and ultimately tragedy.

Ng's novel poignantly examines the complexities of cultural identity, the burden of parental expectations, and the consequences of suppressing one's true self through the lens of a Chinese-American family in the 1970s.

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