Dragonwings is a historical fiction book authored by Laurence Yep. The book follows a story of the struggles of Chinese families when they came to the U.S in the early 20th century. The main character, Moon Shadow, is born in China. The boy’s father, Windrider, goes to the US to look for greener pastures and leaves his family in China. At the age of nine years, Moon Shadow follows his father in America. Life in the US is different from China. Moon Shadow struggles to adopt the new culture in America. Laurence’s novel explores the themes of family, cultural conflicts, and friendship.
Windrider has big plans, which make some people close to him perceive him as a lunatic. The hardworking father of one is undeterred and believes that one day doubters would prove him right. The first day of Moon Shadow’s arrival to America is contrary to what he expected. The demons throw stones and shatter the window to the young man’s surprise. It is during this time that Windrider reveals to his son about designing an airplane. Although Moon Shadow is excited about the idea, some people are skeptical.
The struggles continue but Moon Shadow and his father do not despair. To show their kindness, Moon Shadow and Windrider plead with Black Dog to stop his criminal behavior. Unluckily, their advice fell on deaf ears as Black Dog starts stealing from them. A twist of events occurs when an earthquake hits San Francisco. The family is forced to look for another place to settle. However, despite all the challenges, Windrider and his son are successful in designing an airplane which they call dragonwings. Consequently, they prove their doubters wrong.
