Question F

[Jonetta]

Much was made about Harry trying so hard to exhibit his Chinese identity. Do you think he realized Charlie wasn’t his biological father? Did Charlie know Harry wasn’t his biological son?

[Charlene]

I think "no" in both cases. Harry just knew he looked less Chinese than the rest of his family and neighbors. I am less sure about Charlie's knowledge, but it's been weeks since I read the book, so a bit fuzzy here.

[Jonetta]

There was nothing in the book to definitively suggest that either knew about Harry’s paternity so your memory is just fine, Charlene.

I kind of think that something was motivating Harry to try so hard to “be” Chinese, for being insecure about it. It was either his father’s behavior towards him or some question in his own mind about his paternity. I have a feeling Charlie suspected and may have been more detached from Harry. There was a statement near the end that Charlie and Harry’s relationship had strengthened and were now closer, leading me to believe it was an issue before.

[Robin]

I don't think that either of them realized that Harry wasn't Charlie's biological son. I do think it bothered Harry that he didn't look Chinese and therefore felt different than his friends and family.

[Lauren]

I'm not sure about Charlie (although Jonetta's comment makes sense to me), but I think that Harry did suspect and it explains his desire to be as Chinese as possible.

There is one scene where Frank comes to question Harry and he is wearing a hair shirt and seems to imply that he knows he doesn't really belong in the Lee family.

[Jonetta]

I remember that scene. I was confused by it all until Minnie confessed that Harry wasn’t Charlie’s child and he didn’t look Chinese. I think that was the first time his characteristics were mentioned with specificity.

[Lauren]

Jonetta wrote: "I think that was the first time his characteristics were mentioned with specificity."

Yes, it is hinted at throughout but never explicitly stated until near the end. There were enough clues to figure it out before the reveal though.