Laurence Yep's Dragonwings offers a compelling look into early 20th-century Chinese immigrant life in America. Praised for its rich historical detail and emotional depth, the novel excels in character development and cultural representation. However, some readers find its pacing slow. Overall, it is a powerful and enlightening read for young audiences and adults alike.

Readers who relish coming-of-age stories with historical backdrops will enjoy Dragonwings by Laurence Yep. Fans of Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor and Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan will appreciate this novel’s blend of immigrant experiences and rich cultural heritage, set against the early 20th-century San Francisco.

Dragonwings by Laurence Yep follows Moon Shadow Lee, a young Chinese boy who moves to America to reconnect with his father, Windrider Lee, who dreams of building and flying his own airplane. Together, they face numerous challenges, including racial prejudice, poverty, and the devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake. Through determination and community support, they strive to achieve their aspirations and strengthen their bond. The novel includes multiple depictions of racism and violence motivated by racism.

Inspirational / Adventurous / Emotional / Heartwarming / Challenging

- Dragonwings by Laurence Yep is part of the author's Golden Mountain Chronicles, a series that captures the Chinese American experience across different generations.
- The novel was a Newbery Honor Book in 1976, highlighting its significance in children's literature and its impact on young readers.
- Inspired by historical events, Dragonwings draws from the true story of Fung Joe Guey, a Chinese immigrant who built a flying machine in the early 1900s.

**Moon Shadow Lee**  
A young Chinese immigrant who narrates the story as he navigates early 20th-century America, guided by his evolving relationship with his father and his experiences of cultural integration and community.  
  
**Windrider Lee**  
Moon Shadow's father, a Chinese immigrant working in a laundromat, who dreams of building a flying machine while maintaining strong familial and community ties.  
  
**Uncle Bright Star**  
The leader of the Company and a seasoned Chinese immigrant, he is a fatherly figure respected for his wisdom and connection to Chinese traditions.  
  
**Miss Whitlaw**  
Windrider and Moon Shadow's property manager, who is open-minded and provides a supportive friendship that helps Moon Shadow feel more at home in America.  
  
**Black Dog**  
Uncle Bright Star’s son, who becomes an antagonist due to his involvement in Chinatown's criminal underworld and struggles with life in America.  
  
**Robin**  
Miss Whitlaw's niece and Moon Shadow’s friend, who shares his curiosity and helps him navigate interactions with their peers.

Laurence Yep

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Dragonwings reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Dragonwings | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Dragonwings and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Dragonwings

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Dragonwings?

Reading Age

Book Details