Cathy Park Hong’s Minor Feelings is a powerful and poetic exploration of the Asian American experience. Through essays, poetry, and vignettes, Hong dissects what it means to be an outsider in both Asia and America. She delves into topics such as immigration, identity, family relationships, fandom, and more. The result is a nuanced and thought-provoking book that sheds light on the unique perspective of Asian Americans.
For who is this book for ?
This book is for anyone interested in the Asian American experience, whether you are of Asian descent or not. Hong’s writing is powerful and lyrical, and her insights into what it means to be an outsider will resonate with readers from all walks of life.
Pros :
- Hong’s poetic writing style brings the Asian American experience to life in a visceral and powerful way
- The topics Hong covers are relevant and thought-provoking, shedding light on a often overlooked perspective
- This book is an important addition to the body of work about race and identity in America
Cons :
- The author’s voice is not for everyone
- The book feels disjointed at times
- Some of the essays feel like they could have been developed more
Learn more about the author
Cathy Park Hong is a Korean American writer and poet. She has published essays, poetry, and fiction in magazines such as The Paris Review, Harper’s Magazine, Poetry magazine, New York Times Sunday Magazine, and more. Minor Feelings is her first book.
Reader Reviews
“Minor Feelings is an important book. It’s a reckoning–with Hong’s own family and with her place in the world as both a Korean American and an artist. This isn’t easy work, but it is honest, insightful, and deeply moving.”
“Minor Feelings is an important book. Hong has written a powerful exploration of the Asian American experience, delving into topics such as immigration, identity, family relationships and more. The result is insightful and thought-provoking.”
“Hong has written a book that is unflinchingly honest, insightful, and timely. Minor Feelings should be required reading for anyone who wants to understand the Asian American experience.”
“Hong has a fresh and insightful perspective on what it means to grow up as an Asian American in the U.S.”
