American Born Chinese Allusions & Cultural References

When authors refer to other great works, people, and events, it’s usually not accidental. Put on your super-sleuth hat and figure out why.

Literary and Philosophical References

  • "The Monkey King" by Wu Cheng'en (chapters 1, 4, 7, 9)

Pop Culture References

  • Boba or pearl milk tea (9.114-9.124)
  • Transformers (2.17-2.19)
  • Yao Ming, ex-center for the Houston Rockets 

Biblical References

  • Tze-Yo-Tzuh: God (4.49-4.95; 7.10-7.26)
  • Wong Lao-Tsai: Jesus (7.5-7.76; 7.96-107)