Interior Chinatown

The title, Interior Chinatown, can have multiple meanings in the story. Discuss what these are.

How does Karen differ from Willis physically and psychologically? What role does she play in his emotional development?

Give some examples of the stereotypical roles that this book assigns Asian people to play. Why did they take on these roles in American culture?

Willis is keenly aware of racial distinctions on the set of his TV show. What roles does the script assign to white, Black, and Asian people? Why?

Both Willis and his father became Kung Fu Guy. By the end of the novel, their career paths diverge. Describe what happens to each man and why.

Willis says of the Golden Palace that it is “Like a museum, a presentation of a time and place that always exist, and never did.” What does his statement mean?

Willis’s narration of the story is rarely straightforward. Give a few examples of his shift in perspective. Why do you think the author chose to have Willis speak in this way?

Older Brother says that Willis believes his oppression is second-class. Explain Willis’s mindset in holding such a belief.