Introduction to Asian American Studies: Final Zine Project (4) - Lauren Hendrickson - Kelli Kufta - Madi Earnshaw - Hayley Lee

heterosexual relationship. They both are confused by this relationship and how it pertains to their developing identity.

̣ Throughout the novel, we see Little dogs’ transformation through multiple lenses. He suffers from trauma, racism, and homophobia while trying to navigate a whole new culture and language. Although it was not always easy for him to accept the parts of his identity that differed from other people, he learns that these pieces make him beautiful in his own way. He not only finds the beauty within his own “ugliness”, but he also finds beauty within troubled relationships and past moments. Although he writes his letter to his mother, it is clear that his letter is also intended for himself as a way to self-acceptance.

SOCIAL, POLITICAL, & INTELLECTUAL SIGNIFICANCE…

This book puts the reader in Little Dog’s position. Using the first person narrative, Vuong captures the emotions of being an outcast immigrant in America. In many texts about the Vietnamese War, there is a large historical portion that relies heavily on facts. On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous goes beyond the statistics and relativizes the mental, social and emotional impacts on a child immigrant who was a product of the Vietnam War. Vuong also modernizes the effects of the Vietnam War, bringing up the timeline of Tiger Woods, a famous golfer also a product of the Vietnam War. Most college students and younger believe that these wars happened before they were born therefore it was a long time ago. However Vuong emphasizes the time period by mentioning details of recent history like the songs “Where Is The Love?” by Black Eyed Peas, the Mario Brothers Game and Goodwill. All of which are relatable aspects of life that readers can connect with.