Point of View

The novel is narrated in the first-person, switching between the descriptions of different characters in each chapter, all members of intergenerational families either living in China or abroad. The author places no limitations on the access to any of the character's inner thoughts, allowing the reader to understand their true motivations and conflicts as they are often not outspoken with the people in their lives. All of the characters in the novel do display vulnerability with themselves and others, paving the way for the characters to learn moral lessons throughout their experiences. For example, when Cao Cao is feeling dejected about the progress of his airplane construction and the multitude of setbacks, he does not retreat into himself and his own perspective, but he chooses to listen to his fellow villagers’ wisdom and advice. As a result, he is rewarded with the gift of new...