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Days of Distraction is a debut novel by Alexandra Chang, published in 2020. The novel explores themes of identity, race, gender, love, and the pursuit of the American Dream through the eyes of its protagonist, a young Chinese-American woman named Jing Jing. Through Jing Jing’s experiences, Chang critiques the American dream and its cost to non-white Americans, especially immigrants.The novel is written in a first-person narrative, providing a window into Jing Jing’s mind as she navigates her life in America. The narrative voice is introspective, contemplative, and insightful, capturing the internal struggles and emotional complexities of the protagonist. The style of the novel is also marked by a fragmented, non-linear structure that mirrors Jing Jing’s scattered thoughts and experiences.Jing Jing’s character is the driving force of the novel. She is a young woman in her late twenties, working as a tech journalist in San Francisco, California. Jing Jing is also in a long-distance relationship with her white boyfriend, J, who is pursuing a graduate degree on the East Coast. Her relationship with J is strained as she grapples with her racial and cultural identity and the challenges of being a non-white immigrant in America. Jing Jing’s identity crisis is further complicated by her mother’s expectations of her as a Chinese daughter, which conflict with her own desires and aspirations.Chang portrays Jing Jing as a relatable, flawed, and multifaceted character. Her insecurities and doubts are palpable, as is her growth and self-awareness throughout the novel. Jing Jing’s journey towards self-discovery is compelling, as she navigates the complexities of her relationships, her career, and her identity. Her experiences highlight the pervasive racism, sexism, and xenophobia that exist in American society, as well as the microaggressions and everyday struggles that non-white individuals face.One of the most significant themes of the novel is the tension between the American Dream and the reality of being a non-white immigrant in America. Jing Jing’s pursuit of the American Dream is juxtaposed with her experiences of discrimination and marginalization. She confronts the myth of meritocracy and the reality of systemic inequality, particularly in the tech industry where she works. The novel critiques the idea that hard work and talent are enough to succeed in America, highlighting the role that privilege, power, and access play in determining success.Another significant theme is the exploration of racial and cultural identity. Jing Jing’s struggle to reconcile her Chinese heritage with her American identity is a central focus of the novel. Chang portrays the complexities of identity formation and the challenges of navigating multiple cultural contexts. Jing Jing’s experiences also highlight the ways in which racism and discrimination shape her sense of self and her relationships with others.Chang’s writing style is engaging and evocative, with vivid descriptions and insightful observations. Her use of metaphor and imagery is particularly effective in conveying the emotional and psychological landscape of the protagonist. The novel also employs a range of literary techniques, including stream of consciousness, flashback, and intertextuality, to create a multifaceted narrative that reflects Jing Jing’s fragmented identity and experiences.In conclusion, Days of Distraction is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of identity, race, and the American Dream through the experiences of its protagonist. Chang’s writing is both evocative and engaging, capturing the internal struggles and emotional complexities of the character. The novel critiques the myth of meritocracy and the reality of systemic inequality, highlighting the pervasive racism, sexism, and xenophobia that exist in American society. It is a compelling and timely work that sheds light on the challenges and struggles of being a non-white immigrant in America.