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Review of Rachel Khong's novel 'Real Americans' presents mixed critical reception

opinion-review · 2026-04-02

A review of Rachel Khong's novel 'Real Americans' has been published, presenting contrasting perspectives on the work. The article includes both positive and critical assessments of the book. One viewpoint describes the novel as resembling a lottery win, suggesting unexpected value or delight. Another perspective critiques the character development, stating the characters are flatter than a television screen, indicating potential lack of depth. The review appears in DER SPIEGEL, a German publication, with an illustration by Peter M. Hoffmann accompanying the piece. The article explores themes of American identity, as suggested by the illustration caption questioning when someone becomes a real American. The content appears behind a paywall requiring SPIEGEL+ subscription access, indicating it's part of the publication's premium content. The novel 'Real Americans' by Rachel Khong is the central subject of this literary review, which examines its merits and shortcomings through different critical lenses.

Key facts

  • Rachel Khong authored the novel 'Real Americans'
  • The review contains both positive and negative assessments
  • One description compares the novel to a lottery win
  • Another critique states characters lack depth
  • The review was published by DER SPIEGEL
  • Peter M. Hoffmann created accompanying illustrations
  • The article explores themes of American identity
  • Access requires SPIEGEL+ subscription

Entities

Artists

  • Rachel Khong
  • Peter M. Hoffmann

Institutions

  • DER SPIEGEL

Sources