Discussion: Fish Cheeks

Group 1:
What did young Amy think was “shabby” about her family’s Chinese Christmas celebration.
Do you agree with her? Why or why not?

Group 2:
Why are the prawns described as fleshy? What is appalling about the mounds of food? Is there
any American food that you find appalling?

Group 3:
Does this food sound appealing? Why or why not? Is there any American food that you find
unappealing?
Why is she comparing food with something that is completely inedible (cannot be eaten)?

Group 4:
Imagine all the Chinese relative arriving one after another. Somewhere in the mix, the non-
Chinese minister and his family arrive. How might they feel? Why?

Group 5:
Why does Robert “grunt” hello? What does this say about his attitude?
Why does Amy “pretend he is not worthy of existence” even through her disappointment?

Group 6
Why is Robert disgusted? What do you think about his manners?
Describe some of the differences between traditional Chinese table manners and American table
manners?

Group 7
Why were the non-Chinese guests astonished? What do you think about the Robert’s father,
who did something surprising? Do you like him? Why or why not?

Group 8
Why does Amy’s mother give her an early Christmas present? How does the present symbolize
the advice Amy’s mother gives her?