Essay Questions

According to Laurence, yep, what is the power of determination in the book 'Dragonwings?'

Windrider is portrayed as an ambitious man who has big dreams of designing an airplane. When Windrider shares his vision with the people around him, they call him mad and nasty names because his ambition seems unrealistic and unachievable. However, Windrider believes in his dreams and ability to develop an airplane. Towards the end, Windrider works closely with his son, and they successfully develop an airplane which proves their critiques wrong.

How is family unity emerging as one of the key themes in ‘Dragonwings?’

When Windrider migrated to America, his sole purpose was to look for greener pastures to provide the best for his family. Later, Windrider is joined by his son, and they work together towards achieving a common goal. Similarly, the people living in Chinatown maintain close family ties and regularly observe the Chinese culture and heritage despite being in a western world far from home.

What is the significance of the books’ setting and context?

'Dragonwings' is a fictional book set in San Francisco in the famous Chinatown. Most of the inhabitants of Chinatown are of Chinese origin. The setting of this book is significant because it helps the reader comprehend immigrants' experiences in America. For instance, when Moon Shadow joins his father in America at the age of nine, he is treated with culture shock. With time, Moon assimilates to American culture but maintains his Chinese heritage. Therefore, one of the key challenges immigrants face in America is adjusting to the western culture.