The Secret Battle of Evan Pao

Analyze the title The Secret Battle of Evan Pao. How does the title reflect the themes and conflicts of the novel? Evan faces multiple challenges throughout the story—prejudice, bullying, family struggles, and self-identity. Which of these is his “secret battle,” and why is it significant? Support your response with specific examples from the text.

Compare and contrast Evan and Celeste. How do their personalities shape their reactions to their father’s abandonment and their move to Haddington? How do their differing approaches to these challenges reflect their personal growth throughout the novel? Use examples from the text to illustrate their development.

Examine the theme of systemic prejudice in the novel. How do the Paos experience systemic racism and bias in their new community? Analyze specific incidents, such as interactions with law enforcement or school assignments, to explain how the novel portrays systemic prejudice and how the family responds to it.