Crazy Rich Asians was such a joy to read! I agree that we would’ve gotten the picture with a bit less brand-dropping, but also think the stylistic extravagance is merely form mirroring family—and what an enjoyable family Kevin Kwan has introduced us to!!

I loved all of the Youngs, Shangs, and T’siens (specifically Oliver!) even when I wasn’t supposed to, and am impatiently awaiting the day I can pick up their continued stories from my library.

Also, I’m not sure *exactly* what to make of this yet, but I’ve read some really interesting interviews Kwan gave about his books, all of which made me wonder if we're selling his aspirations with the series a bit short. My large thematic question—can (delicious, shameless) soapy novels make political statements about the particular strain of Western greed and traditional Asian sensibilities so beautifully combined in these characters? I’m excited to dig into Kwan’s next books (and August film!) to find the answer.