The Crocodile Birkin Bag

In Counterfeit, Chen utilizes the rare crocodile Birkin bag as a symbol for the American dream. Like the promise of happiness and prosperity, the designer bag is rare and difficult to come by. At the close of the novel, Ava reveals that she bought the bag back at auction as a gift for Winnie. While she will never use the Birkin bag, it is an emblem for her achievement of the nearly impossible. She managed to reinvent her identity, build a successful business, and find happiness in America.

The iPad

Throughout the novel, Chen utilizes the iPad as a symbol for modern parenting. When Henri is fussing or throwing a tantrum, Ava gives him the tablet and turns on a movie or game. The only times she does not use the electronic device to soothe her child is when Maria is present. The...