Messy Roots

Laura Gao

Messy Roots
Laura Gao

Balzer & Bray

Expanding on her short comic called “The Wuhan I Know”, author and illustrator Laura Gao juxtaposes her experiences growing up in Wuhan, China with coming-of-age in Texas during COVID-19. Beautifully illustrated and earnestly told, Gao reveals the beauty of Wuhan, the complexity of being a teen, and discovering her sexuality.

Content Warnings: Homophobia, Racism, Xenophobia

Discussion Questions

Have you ever been judged by another? How does your life compare with Gao's?

Vocabulary & Teaching Guides

Video Content

Publisher Content & Publicity

Classroom Connections

Be inspired by Gao's graphic memoir! In art class or in an ELA class, write and draw your own memoir.
In a cultural heritage lesson, use this novel to inspire how you look at your own cultural heritage and your place within your community.

Laura Gao

Author
https://www.lauragao.com/

Laura Gao (Chinese: 高宇洋; pinyin: Gāo Yǔyáng[1]) is a Chinese-American comics artist. Gao became famous when she released a short comic called "The Wuhan I Know" in response to the growing sinophobia due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Companion Books