Summary
Author: Kevin Kwan (b. 1974)
Publisher: Doubleday (New York). 416 pp.
Type of work: Novel
Time: 2010
Locale: Singapore
Crazy Rich Asians sweeps readers into the opulent world of Singapore's superwealthy with both humor and sharp social commentary. Kevin Kwan's debut is a striking depiction of extravagance and human complexity, showcased through vibrant characters and lavish settings. This novel artfully explores the intersection of wealth and personal relationships, revealing the universal challenges plaguing even the most privileged.
The World of the Ultrarich
In Crazy Rich Asians, Kevin Kwan introduces us to the dazzling lifestyle of Singapore's elite, filled with irony and wit. The story unfolds from the perspective of Rachel Chu, an American-born Chinese woman. Rachel, raised by her single mother, becomes an economics professor at New York University and is in a relationship with Nicholas Young, a history professor. Unbeknownst to her, Nicholas hails from a family whose wealth is beyond her wildest imagination.
A Journey to Singapore
Rachel agrees to join Nicholas for a summer trip to Singapore in 2010, where he is to be the best man at his childhood friend Colin Khoo's wedding. As Rachel and readers delve into the world of unimaginable wealth, they uncover that affluence doesn't shield one from common human struggles. Envy, jealousy, and frustration are rampant, even among those who seem to have it all.
From Coffee Table Books to Novels
Kevin Kwan entered the literary world with luxurious coffee table books before penning Crazy Rich Asians, his first novel. Drawing inspiration from his own family and upbringing in Singapore, Kwan crafts a fictional yet keenly observed satire. Despite its fictional nature, the novel resonates with the lifestyle of the ultrarich, as explained by Rachel's friend Goh Peik Lin: "They are crazy rich."
Weaving Realism with Irony
The narrative thrives on Kwan's realistic portrayal of family dynamics, from ambitious mothers to suspicious fathers and competitive siblings. The obsession with lineage and material wealth in this world rivals that of European aristocracy. Yet, Kwan maintains empathy for all characters, regardless of their flaws, ensuring they retain their human dignity.
Unwitting Entrapment
The novel shines with irony as Rachel unknowingly steps into Nicholas's world of family intrigue. When Nicholas invites her to Singapore during summer break, their conversation is overheard by Celine Lim, a fashion student from Singapore. This eavesdropping sets off a chain reaction leading to Nicholas's mother, Eleanor Sung, discovering the situation. Determined to investigate Rachel, Eleanor hires private investigators, uncovering a family secret that threatens to upend Rachel's relationship with Nicholas.
Foils and Contrasts
Kwan artfully uses foils to highlight the choices and challenges faced by his characters. Nicholas's childhood friend, Colin, marries into the affluent Araminta Lee's family, conforming to societal expectations unlike Nicholas. This contrast underscores the notion of free will amid similar backgrounds, highlighting that individuals are not bound solely by their circumstances.
Gender Dynamics in Wealth
Parallel to Nicholas, his cousin Astrid Leong defies family expectations by marrying Michael Teo, a Special Forces officer. Their relationship explores the gender dynamics in a marriage of unequal wealth. Michael's pride as a self-made entrepreneur clashes with Astrid's family's treatment of him, offering insight into the complexities of such unions.
Character Foils and Their Roles
Kwan's skilled depiction of varied characters enriches the narrative. Bernard Tai, a pampered scion, contrasts starkly with the virtuous Colin, despite their family ties. Bernard's reckless behavior leads him into the arms of Kitty Pong, a gold digger, diverting her from Nicholas's cousin, Alistair. Through these diverse personalities, Kwan avoids pigeonholing the "crazy rich."
Engaging Dialogue...
(This entire section contains 930 words.)
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and Brand Names
Kwan's storytelling captivates with witty dialogue and brisk character sketches. He masterfully navigates reader expectations, peppering the narrative with luxury brand mentions, and vividly illustrating the allure of high-end consumerism. This attention to detail reveals both the absurdity and allure of this affluent world.
Luxury and Imitation
The novel also highlights the paradoxical joy society women find in "real fakes"—luxury goods produced beyond official orders and sold illicitly. On a shopping excursion to Shenzhen, Eleanor and her friends revel in purchasing these discounted imitations, reflecting a complex relationship with wealth and authenticity.
Postcolonial Perspectives
Kwan incisively examines Singapore's postcolonial society, still captivated by Western luxury. Unlike South Korea and Taiwan's more distinct identities, Singapore's elite mirrors British tastes. This cultural legacy influences everything from naming conventions to consumer preferences, shaping the ultrarich's worldview.
A Convenient Plot Device
While largely convincing, the plot occasionally strains for the sake of drama. As Rachel realizes, family introductions are weighty affairs for Asian families, particularly among the elites. Nicholas's decision to stay at a hotel until his grandmother meets Rachel is logical, but Shan Su Yi's abrupt change of heart towards Rachel to facilitate narrative tension feels contrived.
A Captivating Debut
Ultimately, Crazy Rich Asians enchants with its vivid portrayal of Singapore's lavish elite. Kwan's empathetic treatment of his characters, despite their excesses, creates a compelling narrative. By centering humble, genuine protagonists in a world obsessed with wealth, the novel provides a fascinating glimpse into lives touched by extraordinary fortune. As Rachel's mother astutely reminds us, "Not everyone is rich in Asia, you know."
Review Sources
- Rev. of Crazy Rich Asians, by Kevin Kwan. Kirkus Reviews 1 June 2013: 20. Print.
- Rev. of Crazy Rich Asians, by Kevin Kwan. Library Journal 1 Mar. 2013: 3. Print.
- Huntley, Kristine. Rev. of Crazy Rich Asians, by Kevin Kwan. Booklist 15 May 2013: 15. Print.
- Lee, Stephan. Rev. of Crazy Rich Asians, by Kevin Kwan. Entertainment Weekly 14 June 2013: 98. Print.
- Maslin, Janet. "A Family Blinded by Bling and Fancy Designer Names." Rev. of Crazy Rich Asians, by Kevin Kwan. New York Times 1 July 2013: C1. Print.
