The concept of beauty is another theme that the novel presents. This is an empowering idea for young readers. There is a strong sense of being able to talk about problems without having a solution. I am drawn to Rowell’s ability to allow characters to grapple with issues of race, family, bullying and identity without being untrue to the adolescent perspectives. I found that pretty out of character for the mother and perhaps also for the 1980s! Perhaps the most surprising reaction to Park's appearance comes from his usually reserved mother, who questions him about the gender roles in he and Eleanor’s relationship. Although his father's opinions of masculinity are outright, Park himself also considers himself feminine in some respects. When he expresses to Eleanor that there are no hot Asian guys, this is a sentiment he's thought about before. I actually think Park's self perception reflects these insecurities although readers aren't privy to this information until later in the novel. Interesting interpretation of Park's appearance issues, Sophie.
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