These people have battled communists, trekked by foot across countries, and risked their lives to protect their family. You'd think that'd be enough, but now Nao Kao and Foua Lee are facing their biggest challenge yet: overcoming prejudice. After the Hmong receive refugee status in the United States, you'd think it should be all sunshine and roses from here on out, right? Wrong. They're faced with all sorts of nasty biases as soon as they arrive in the so-called "land of the free," getting their culture mocked and their intelligence insulted. In a word, it's gross. Though The Spirit Catches You features plenty of moments that will make your blood boil, it ultimately shows the uselessness—and downright stupidity—of xenophobia and racism.
Questions About Foreignness and the Other
- How does the Hmongs' economic instability increase American distrust toward them?
- Do Neil and Peggy have a better understanding of the Lees by the end of the book? How do we see their views change?
- In your opinion, why do characters like Dee and Jeanine become so close to the Lees?
- How did anti-foreigner bias contribute to Lia's disastrous medical care?
Chew on This
Although they hold plenty of biases at the onset, Neil and Peggy manage to gain respect for the Hmong—and more importantly, they gain the ability to see Nao Kao and Foua as individuals.
Ultimately, the problems caused by the rough Merced economy get blamed on the Hmong, solely based on racism and xenophobia.