How to American summary

Embracing the American Dream

In How to American, Jimmy O. Yang, a stand-up comedian, and actor, shares his personal journey of moving from Hong Kong to America at the age of 13. His family's move to Los Angeles was a result of his father's pursuit of the American Dream. Despite the initial shock of cultural differences and language barriers, Yang quickly adapted to his new environment, learning English by immersing himself in American pop culture.

Yang's journey to becoming 'American' was marked by numerous experiences, like working as a strip club DJ to pay for college, and participating in various odd jobs. These experiences, while unconventional, provided Yang with a unique perspective on American life, and he used these experiences as material for his stand-up comedy.

Pursuing a Career in Comedy

In How to American, Yang shares the challenges he faced while pursuing a career in comedy. He discusses the stereotypes and typecasting he faced as an Asian actor in Hollywood. Instead of being discouraged, Yang used these obstacles as fuel to push himself further. He honed his craft, working tirelessly to prove himself as a comedian and an actor.

Yang's big break came when he landed the role of Jian Yang in HBO's Silicon Valley. This role not only provided him with the platform to showcase his comedic talent but also allowed him to challenge the stereotypical portrayal of Asians in the entertainment industry.

Overcoming Stereotypes

Throughout How to American, Yang addresses the stereotypes surrounding Asian Americans. He shares anecdotes of the often ridiculous and sometimes offensive auditions he had to endure, where he was expected to play into these stereotypes. Yang's refusal to conform to these limited portrayals of Asian characters and his insistence on creating multifaceted, authentic representations is a recurring theme in his book.

Yang also uses his platform to raise awareness about the lack of diversity in the entertainment industry. He believes that diverse representation is crucial for breaking down stereotypes and fostering understanding among different communities.

Becoming an American Citizen

A pivotal moment in How to American is Yang's journey to becoming a US citizen. After facing the possibility of deportation due to a misunderstanding during a college trip to Tijuana, Yang decided to formalize his commitment to America by pursuing citizenship. This process, though challenging, allowed him to reflect on his identity and the meaning of being 'American.'

Yang's journey, as chronicled in How to American, is an inspiring testament to the resilience and determination of immigrants. He encourages readers to embrace their unique cultural backgrounds while striving to integrate into their new communities. His story is a celebration of the American Dream and a call to break through the barriers of stereotypes and prejudice.