The Shadow Hero both engages and challenges Asian American stereotypes using parental relationships and symbolism. Hua embodies many of the “Asian mother” stereotypes, putting intense pressures and expectations on her son. Hua puts her son through physical pain and emotional stress to become a superhero, like the American “Anchor of Justice.” The superhero theme can be interpreted as education, fitting Hua to the stereotype of the tiger mom. This same theme challenges the stereotype of Asian Americans as naturally intelligent. Becoming a superhero is a seemingly impossible task for Hank, while for the “Anchor of Justice,” rumors suggest it simply happened by forces of nature. Hank suffers a great deal to earn the title of superhero—especially from his mother, who pushed him to become one in the first place—suggesting that assimilating while achieving academically is an arduous undertaking for Asian Americans. The superhero theme works with the parental stereotypes of Asian immigrants on education to demonstrate that Asian Americans assimilate and succeed despite overwhelming obstacles.
