Yellowface: A Reese's Club Pick R. F Kuang

In R.F. Kuang's gripping novel, "Yellowface," bestselling author Juniper Song harbors a dark secret: she's an imposter, having stolen the experimental masterpiece of her literary rival, Athena Liu, who tragically dies. Although purportedly Asian American, Juniper is actually June Hayward, who appropriates Athena's narrative about Chinese laborers in World War I.

Driven by jealousy, June's ambition leads her to rebrand as Juniper Song, obscuring her true identity with an ambiguously ethnic author photo. Her stolen success propels her to New York Times bestseller status, but the specter of Athena looms large, threatening to expose her deception.

As June grapples with issues of cultural appropriation, diversity, and racism, she becomes ensnared in a web of lies. The narrative delves into the isolating influence of social media and the lengths June will go to protect her ill-gotten fame. Through an immersive first-person voice, readers are confronted with the complexities of identity and the consequences of deceit.

"Yellowface" offers a timely exploration of cultural issues, delivering a sharp critique of the publishing industry's dynamics and the pervasive influence of social media. Kuang's storytelling is both compelling and thought-provoking, engaging with the challenges of diversity and the precarious balance between success and deception.