What theme from the ancient Chinese novel journey to the west does gene luen yang reuse his modern story American born Chinese

Answer: Self Acceptance

The correct answer would be transformation and identity. In the traditional Chinese story a magical monkey wasn't to be a god and does everything he can to be admitted to heaven and be one. However, because he is still considered an outsider by the other gods he strives to transform himself into one, instead of remaining a monkey. However, even though he feels comfortable as a god, he is unable to forget that he is also a monkey. In Yuang's graphic novel the protagonist goes through the same phases as he tries to fully assimilate to mainstream white American culture. In doing so he redefines his identity as one part of him evolves and the other one remains linked to his Asian heritage.