In an interview with Elaine Woo for the Los Angeles Times on March 12, 1989, Amy Tan mentioned that her parents wished for their children "to have American circumstances and Chinese character." Write an essay explaining what her parents might have meant by this. Provide specific examples to illustrate both the "circumstances" and the "character."

Explore the history of Chinese immigration to our country. When did the Chinese first start arriving? What motivated them to come here? Where did they choose to settle, and why?

The Joy Luck Club was published in 1989, the same year that Chinese university students staged a significant uprising in Beijing's Tiananmen Square. Research these 1989 demonstrations. Why were the students protesting? How did the Chinese government respond? How did the United States react? What impact did these events have on Chinese students studying in the United States at that time?

Examine the history of the "Joy Luck Club." How did it get its name? What was its significance? Why did Chinese-American women feel the need to establish a Joy Luck Club in America?

Compare and contrast pre-World War II China with contemporary China. Discuss various aspects such as living conditions, government, cultural aspects, education, and more.

Investigate the psychological aspects of either generational conflict or mother/daughter relationships. Write an essay describing your own experiences in relation to what you have learned from your research.