They Called Us Exceptional
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Parachi Gupta
Synopsis
They Called Us Exceptional by Prachi Gupta is a memoir that delves into the complex dynamics of a South Asian American family navigating the pressures of the "model minority" stereotype. The book explores the intense expectations placed on Gupta and her brother, emphasizing academic and professional success as a means of survival and acceptance in America. As she recounts her family's story, Gupta also critiques the damaging effects of these pressures on mental health, identity, and family relationships. Through a mix of personal anecdotes and broader social commentary, she sheds light on the often-hidden struggles behind the facade of "exceptionalism."
Lessons and Themes
Comparative Literature
1. Pair They Called Us Exceptional with another memoir or novel that explores immigrant experiences, such as The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan or The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri. Students can compare and contrast themes of cultural identity, family dynamics, and the immigrant experience in different contexts.
2. How does Gupta's experience as an immigrant differ from or align with other immigrant narratives you've read?
Society
1. What does the book suggest about the cost of living up to societal and familial expectations? How do different characters respond to these pressures, and what are the consequences of their choices?
2. What does the memoir reveal about the generational differences in immigrant families? How do the parents' experiences and expectations compare with those of their children, and what does this say about the immigrant experience in America?
Assignment Ideas
Character Analysis Paper:
Have students choose a key character from the memoir—such as Prachi, her brother, or her parents—and write an analysis of their motivations, challenges, and growth throughout the book. Students should use evidence from the text to support their analysis.
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Comparative Analysis Essay: Ask students to compare They Called Us Exceptional with another memoir or novel that addresses similar themes, such as The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri or Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner. Students should analyze how each author approaches themes of identity, family, and cultural expectations.