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Don't Cause Trouble
Twelve-year-old Ming Lee hopes middle school will be the fresh start he needs.
But stepping into school with the same bowl haircut his mom insists on giving him, and wearing the extra-discounted thrift shop clothes she buys him doesn't quite make for the first day of his dreams. Things only get worse when he’s placed in an ESL class despite English being his first (and only) language. The journey ahead is full of awkward, painful, and downright embarrassing moments.
Ming’s dad always tells him, “Get good grades! Don’t cause trouble!” But with two new friends by his side, and a few tricks up his sleeve, Ming is determined to make some changes.
Perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier and Jerry Craft, Don’t Cause Trouble is a funny, warmhearted graphic novel that will resonate with readers who are looking for a place to belong.
But stepping into school with the same bowl haircut his mom insists on giving him, and wearing the extra-discounted thrift shop clothes she buys him doesn't quite make for the first day of his dreams. Things only get worse when he’s placed in an ESL class despite English being his first (and only) language. The journey ahead is full of awkward, painful, and downright embarrassing moments.
Ming’s dad always tells him, “Get good grades! Don’t cause trouble!” But with two new friends by his side, and a few tricks up his sleeve, Ming is determined to make some changes.
Perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier and Jerry Craft, Don’t Cause Trouble is a funny, warmhearted graphic novel that will resonate with readers who are looking for a place to belong.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published April 22, 2025
8 people are currently reading
223 people want to read
About the author
Arree Chung
19 books113 followersArree Chung makes picture books but he didn’t always do so. Once he made spreadsheets all day long and he decided that he wanted to make pictures instead. Arree learned how to draw, paint and think a little bit differently at Art Center College of Design.
Arree is represented by Rubin Pfeffer at Rubin Pfeffer Content. http://www.rpcontent.com
Lots of cool stuff at: http://arree.com
Arree is represented by Rubin Pfeffer at Rubin Pfeffer Content. http://www.rpcontent.com
Lots of cool stuff at: http://arree.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
November 17, 2025
I really enjoyed this graphic novel. I actually took a writing class from the author illustrator Arree Chung, so when I saw that he done a graphic novel, I was excited to dive right in. I enjoyed the story, the illustrations, notes from the author and the "how to" notes at the end. Well done!
March 20, 2025
Ming Lee is a 12-year-old non-Chinese speaking Chinese-American but his immigrant parents seem very Old China-ish, often embarrassing him. His mother is devoted to her church and God. His father likes to read a lot and constantly tells him not to get in trouble. His parents are extremely frugal where his mom cuts his hair, giving him the stereotypical bowl cut, and buying mismatched clothing at thrift shops only at the red dot 50% racks. Ming feels he will never fit in with his middle school peers especially because being Asian, he looks so different from anyone else.
Ming’s story is so interesting as he manages to gain friends and deal with his classmates who have the potential to taunt him. Ming has such tenacity as he finds ways to earn money to buy the coveted red Air Elevates sports shoes.
I was able to relate so much to Ming’s story, being a non-Chinese speaking Chinese-American and the only one of maybe two or three other Chinese-Americans in junior high. The stares, the teasing, the taunts, the admiration, the curiosity – been there, done that. Luckily, I did not have to deal with a God-fearing mom like Ming’s but my parents often spoke in Chinese when they did not want me to know something, just like Ming’s. I was so happy to see how Ming was the strong one and manages to deal with his circumstances rather than caving in and cowering away.
The illustrations were perfect, colors were perfect and the story was adorable. I absolutely loved it! Hope to see more from this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy.
Ming’s story is so interesting as he manages to gain friends and deal with his classmates who have the potential to taunt him. Ming has such tenacity as he finds ways to earn money to buy the coveted red Air Elevates sports shoes.
I was able to relate so much to Ming’s story, being a non-Chinese speaking Chinese-American and the only one of maybe two or three other Chinese-Americans in junior high. The stares, the teasing, the taunts, the admiration, the curiosity – been there, done that. Luckily, I did not have to deal with a God-fearing mom like Ming’s but my parents often spoke in Chinese when they did not want me to know something, just like Ming’s. I was so happy to see how Ming was the strong one and manages to deal with his circumstances rather than caving in and cowering away.
The illustrations were perfect, colors were perfect and the story was adorable. I absolutely loved it! Hope to see more from this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy.
December 31, 2025
This story is so relatable to me
This story is so relatable to me. I even had the same haircut for most of my childhood, loved to draw, and loved playing basketball. "Don't Cause Trouble" is such an apt name for any book about growing up as Chinese-American child of immigrants to me, just because it seemed like no matter how much adversity we faced, that must've been our mantra. You could complain about it in the house, but let everything roll off of us like water on a duck's back. It was funny, cringy, and suspenseful. Fantastic read.
This story is so relatable to me. I even had the same haircut for most of my childhood, loved to draw, and loved playing basketball. "Don't Cause Trouble" is such an apt name for any book about growing up as Chinese-American child of immigrants to me, just because it seemed like no matter how much adversity we faced, that must've been our mantra. You could complain about it in the house, but let everything roll off of us like water on a duck's back. It was funny, cringy, and suspenseful. Fantastic read.
September 25, 2025
I picked this up on a very short car ride as a bit of a joke because every single one of my kids were reading a book and I didn't have mine. However, when I got home I kept reading and finished it. This is the story of a middle schooler with Chinese parents who just wants to fit in. As someone who has studied Chinese a bit, the amount of Chinese (with translations) in the book was very fun. The characters felt real and I kept wondering if the book was autobiographical or not. (I don't think it is)
October 25, 2024
The cover of Don’t Cause Trouble perfectly sets the stage for this memoir in graphic novel style.
Twelve-year-old Ming Lee is beginning middle school and is ready for and NEEDS A fresh start.
All kids start the new school year with a fresh new haircut and new school clothes. Alas once again his mother, in her old school ways cuts Ming’s hair as if he’d had it syled under the rim of a cereal bowl. And his clothes are new, but only new to him. Rather mom shops at thrifts store seeking out clothes with red dot sales stickers.
Things only get worse as school begins and he’s placed in an ESL class despite English being his first (and only) language. You see Ming was born in the United States and his parents never wanted him speaking the native language. This way they can talk in front of Ming without him knowing what they are saying. Therefore his middle school journey is filled with awkward, painful, and downright embarrassing moments.
Ming’s dad’s mantra us… “Get good grades! Don’t cause trouble!” Ming a quite likeable boy makes new friends and yes they do get into situations, despite dad’s repeated phrase, don’t cause trouble.
Don’t Cause Trouble is a funny, warmhearted graphic novel that will resonate with readers and sends the message that even though growing up isn’t easy, it’s ok to be yourself.
Twelve-year-old Ming Lee is beginning middle school and is ready for and NEEDS A fresh start.
All kids start the new school year with a fresh new haircut and new school clothes. Alas once again his mother, in her old school ways cuts Ming’s hair as if he’d had it syled under the rim of a cereal bowl. And his clothes are new, but only new to him. Rather mom shops at thrifts store seeking out clothes with red dot sales stickers.
Things only get worse as school begins and he’s placed in an ESL class despite English being his first (and only) language. You see Ming was born in the United States and his parents never wanted him speaking the native language. This way they can talk in front of Ming without him knowing what they are saying. Therefore his middle school journey is filled with awkward, painful, and downright embarrassing moments.
Ming’s dad’s mantra us… “Get good grades! Don’t cause trouble!” Ming a quite likeable boy makes new friends and yes they do get into situations, despite dad’s repeated phrase, don’t cause trouble.
Don’t Cause Trouble is a funny, warmhearted graphic novel that will resonate with readers and sends the message that even though growing up isn’t easy, it’s ok to be yourself.
October 19, 2024
as a graphic memoir this is as good as you would expect it
thank u netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this
chung really puts you back in middle school (which is lowkey traumatic) and i felt so bad for ming he’s just a baby (and i get him because i’m him,without the american passport but yea i always felt like i was on the outside looking in)
anyway GREAT BOOK
read it when it comes out pls
thank u netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this
chung really puts you back in middle school (which is lowkey traumatic) and i felt so bad for ming he’s just a baby (and i get him because i’m him,without the american passport but yea i always felt like i was on the outside looking in)
anyway GREAT BOOK
read it when it comes out pls
November 25, 2024
E ARC provided by Netgalley.com
Ming Lee is the child of immigrants from China, and has trouble navigating school because of the differences in his upbringing, including the fact that his parents are so competitive about saving money that his mother cuts his hair at home. He has to deal with a lot of negative comments at school, but when middle school starts, does make two good friends, Vikrum and Marcus. While Ming's concerns center around things like saving up for Air Elevate shoes. His parents, however, are dealing with bigger issues, like the father's long lost brother contacting the family and needing money. The mother, who trained as a nurse but can only find work cleaning, is a devout church goer, and insists it is better to give money to the church, believing that "God will provide". Even though his parents are insistent that he concentrate on his school work, Ming manages to talk them in to letter him have a sleepover with his friends, and to go trick or treating on Halloween. He gets a lot of candy, and tries to sell some of it to classmates in order to earn money for the shoes he wants. Motivated by a shirt that he sees advertised that all of his classmates are wearing, Ming comes up with a plan to steal three of them from the mall. This lands him, as well as Vikrum and Marcus, in very big trouble, and his friendships are in jeopardy. He and his mother start a small business selling egg rolls that is surprisingly successful, and he also helps her clean as a way to apologize for his brief foray into criminal activities. His friends are eventually allowed to hang out with him again, and Ming starts to feel confident enough that he plans to try out for the school basketball team.
Strengths: Visually, this was a bit different from other graphic novels I've read, which was a nice change. Raina Telgemaier is great, but this doesn't mean that every graphic novel has to look like her work. It was interesting to see typical tween activity through the lens of Ming's parents, who weren't entirely sold on activities like Halloween or sleepovers. The brief discussion of shoplifting was interesting, and is a topic rarely discussed in middle grade literature, although I'm sure occurs more often than we realize. Ming's positive attitude and efforts to try to better his own situation were good to see.
Weaknesses: I couldn't quite tell when this was set; Ming's plaid pants and striped t shirt made me think it was set in the 1970s, when this was a frequent, if questionable, sartorial choice, but it seemed more like the 1990s. I'm still not understanding the hatred for thrift stores; I haven't really shopped anywhere else for thirty years.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who like graphic novel style memoirs (although this is a fictionalized account) about the immigrant experience like LaMotte and Ann Xu's Measuring Up, Ray Xu's Alterations or Martin's MexiKid.
Ming Lee is the child of immigrants from China, and has trouble navigating school because of the differences in his upbringing, including the fact that his parents are so competitive about saving money that his mother cuts his hair at home. He has to deal with a lot of negative comments at school, but when middle school starts, does make two good friends, Vikrum and Marcus. While Ming's concerns center around things like saving up for Air Elevate shoes. His parents, however, are dealing with bigger issues, like the father's long lost brother contacting the family and needing money. The mother, who trained as a nurse but can only find work cleaning, is a devout church goer, and insists it is better to give money to the church, believing that "God will provide". Even though his parents are insistent that he concentrate on his school work, Ming manages to talk them in to letter him have a sleepover with his friends, and to go trick or treating on Halloween. He gets a lot of candy, and tries to sell some of it to classmates in order to earn money for the shoes he wants. Motivated by a shirt that he sees advertised that all of his classmates are wearing, Ming comes up with a plan to steal three of them from the mall. This lands him, as well as Vikrum and Marcus, in very big trouble, and his friendships are in jeopardy. He and his mother start a small business selling egg rolls that is surprisingly successful, and he also helps her clean as a way to apologize for his brief foray into criminal activities. His friends are eventually allowed to hang out with him again, and Ming starts to feel confident enough that he plans to try out for the school basketball team.
Strengths: Visually, this was a bit different from other graphic novels I've read, which was a nice change. Raina Telgemaier is great, but this doesn't mean that every graphic novel has to look like her work. It was interesting to see typical tween activity through the lens of Ming's parents, who weren't entirely sold on activities like Halloween or sleepovers. The brief discussion of shoplifting was interesting, and is a topic rarely discussed in middle grade literature, although I'm sure occurs more often than we realize. Ming's positive attitude and efforts to try to better his own situation were good to see.
Weaknesses: I couldn't quite tell when this was set; Ming's plaid pants and striped t shirt made me think it was set in the 1970s, when this was a frequent, if questionable, sartorial choice, but it seemed more like the 1990s. I'm still not understanding the hatred for thrift stores; I haven't really shopped anywhere else for thirty years.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who like graphic novel style memoirs (although this is a fictionalized account) about the immigrant experience like LaMotte and Ann Xu's Measuring Up, Ray Xu's Alterations or Martin's MexiKid.
March 14, 2025
'Don't Cause Trouble' is a heartfelt and relatable coming-of-age story that beautifully captures the struggles of growing up between two cultures. The book follows Ming Lee, a 12-year-old non-Chinese-speaking Chinese-American, who feels stuck between his immigrant parents’ old-school values and the desire to fit in with his middle school peers. His mother’s deep devotion to church, his father’s love for books, and their extreme frugality make Ming feel even more out of place—whether it’s his bowl-cut hairstyle or thrift store clothes bought only from the 50% off rack.
Ming’s love for drawing becomes his escape and, at times, his saving grace. His talent helps him navigate tricky situations—whether it's getting a pass out of ESL class or rebuilding trust after a misstep. But the book isn’t just about Ming’s journey. It takes the time to explore the complexities of every major character, showing their flaws and strengths without making anyone the "bad guy."
At its core, Don't Cause Trouble delivers powerful life lessons:
- Even the most sincere and hardworking person can make mistakes, but what defines them is how they take responsibility and make things right.
- Never judge a book by its cover. Just as Ming feels hurt by being treated differently for his Chinese heritage, he later realizes he, too, misjudged others.
- Owning your identity, working hard, and choosing to give can go a long way.
With engaging illustrations and an easy-to-read style, this book makes serious themes feel approachable and deeply meaningful. It’s a story about family, identity, and self-acceptance—one that lingers with you long after you turn the last page.
Ming’s love for drawing becomes his escape and, at times, his saving grace. His talent helps him navigate tricky situations—whether it's getting a pass out of ESL class or rebuilding trust after a misstep. But the book isn’t just about Ming’s journey. It takes the time to explore the complexities of every major character, showing their flaws and strengths without making anyone the "bad guy."
At its core, Don't Cause Trouble delivers powerful life lessons:
- Even the most sincere and hardworking person can make mistakes, but what defines them is how they take responsibility and make things right.
- Never judge a book by its cover. Just as Ming feels hurt by being treated differently for his Chinese heritage, he later realizes he, too, misjudged others.
- Owning your identity, working hard, and choosing to give can go a long way.
With engaging illustrations and an easy-to-read style, this book makes serious themes feel approachable and deeply meaningful. It’s a story about family, identity, and self-acceptance—one that lingers with you long after you turn the last page.
January 5, 2025
The title is a bit misleading-- while Ming's parents (especially toward the end of the graphic novel loosely based on Arree's real life) tend to say "don't cause trouble" it's more about his fitting in as a child of Chinese immigrants. Mom is a talker and a faithful servant of God who says often that "God will provide". Dad is quieter and wants Ming to be successful. They speak Chinese when they don't want Ming to know what they're talking about. Ming's inner life is about striving to fit in. His clothes usually don't look like others so he devises a scheme to get some Air Elevate sneakers however his plan goes awry several times and then results in a poor decision (that he pulls his two friends- an Indian boy and Black boy) into by trying to steal shirts from a store for which they get caught.
What I love about the graphic novel is that it shows consequences of actions in all shapes but about not being labeled just by one decision- growth is always a part of growing up. It's an endearing look at the annoyances of middle school and while it doesn't specify a time period, it feels as contemporary as it could be years ago. And I appreciated the ingenuity that he uses toward the end to help his family and also show how even his own mom can stick up for herself against discrimination. Plenty of life lessons tucked within these pages.
... and I love Ming's haircut done by Vik!
What I love about the graphic novel is that it shows consequences of actions in all shapes but about not being labeled just by one decision- growth is always a part of growing up. It's an endearing look at the annoyances of middle school and while it doesn't specify a time period, it feels as contemporary as it could be years ago. And I appreciated the ingenuity that he uses toward the end to help his family and also show how even his own mom can stick up for herself against discrimination. Plenty of life lessons tucked within these pages.
... and I love Ming's haircut done by Vik!
March 8, 2025
Twelve-year old Ming Lee dreams of being popular, playing basketball, and owning a new pair of “Air Elevates.” His Chinese dad and Thai mom (who met and married in Thailand before emigrating to the United States) dream of their only child graduating at the top of his class from Stanford. Ming’s at-home bowl cut and secondhand clothes don’t help his odds of popularity, so he tries to stay off the radar at school and follow his parents’ admonition: don’t cause trouble. He doesn’t even speak up when he’s misplaced in an E.S.L. class! With the help of two new friends - and a new haircut - Ming gains newfound confidence, but his ongoing desire to fit in leads to a serious error in judgment. How Ming handles the repercussions really reflects his character’s emerging maturity as he finds his own voice. Short chapters depict slices-of-life alongside more pivotal moments for Ming, his friends, and his family. Many readers will identify with Ming’s sense of alienation, as well as a through-line of faith in God. They will also respect his entrepreneurial endeavors in his quest to get those Air Elevates! A note from the author reveals how Don’t Cause Trouble was inspired by Chung’s own childhood, and a bonus “How to Make a Graphic Novel” section is a fun behind-the-scenes look at his creative process!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for pre-publication access to an e-galley of Don't Cause Trouble.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for pre-publication access to an e-galley of Don't Cause Trouble.
April 21, 2025
In DON’T CAUSE TROUBLE, Ming is hoping for a fresh start as he starts middle school. Courtesy of his cost-conscious immigrant parents, he begins the year with the same bowl haircut his mom has been giving him forever and a trip to the thrift store for new to him clothes—and not the expensive shoes he really wants. To make things worse, he finds that he’s been placed in an ESL class even though he speaks only English. Once he finds a pair of friends, things start to look up for Ming. The sneakers that he thinks will help him fit in remain on his mind, though, and he comes up with a few different plans to fund the purchase on his own. As part of his quest to belong, he finds himself putting aside his dad’s oft repeated mantra of “don’t cause trouble” and finds himself in big trouble, disappointing his parents and harming his relationship with his friends.
Ming’s sometimes awkward and sometimes embarrassing middle school struggles and feelings will be relatable for many upper elementary and middle school readers. Author Arree Chung’s graphic novel brings together a realistic portrayal of the challenges of both middle school and being a child of immigrants. The book’s messages about belonging and being yourself are delivered in an authentic way with humor and warmth.
Ming’s sometimes awkward and sometimes embarrassing middle school struggles and feelings will be relatable for many upper elementary and middle school readers. Author Arree Chung’s graphic novel brings together a realistic portrayal of the challenges of both middle school and being a child of immigrants. The book’s messages about belonging and being yourself are delivered in an authentic way with humor and warmth.
June 15, 2025
Book 117 of 350 ~ 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Being the odd duck sucks. Being Eurasian and forever being asked what's the Asian In my heritage, even after finding part of my family tree and still not being able to answer makes me feel like I am a little lost sometimes heritage wise?
It sounds similar and yet not to what this graphic novellist is saying, but I reckon if you read it, you will kinda get where I am coming from.
I loved this. Can't wait to read anything else this author creates.
Oh... and I had that bowl haircut, too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#book117of350 #amreading #netgalley #tbrpile #instareads #readstagram #reading #bookreview #bookreviewer #booklover #booksAreLife #booksForTheWin #thisbookfairyisreading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookstagramfeature #bookshelf #booksofinstagram #bookish #bookworm #goodreads #booklovers #theSGbookfairyReads #theSGtrekkiereads #bookaholic #bookaddict #bookchallenge2025 #reviews #lovebooks #booknerds
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Being the odd duck sucks. Being Eurasian and forever being asked what's the Asian In my heritage, even after finding part of my family tree and still not being able to answer makes me feel like I am a little lost sometimes heritage wise?
It sounds similar and yet not to what this graphic novellist is saying, but I reckon if you read it, you will kinda get where I am coming from.
I loved this. Can't wait to read anything else this author creates.
Oh... and I had that bowl haircut, too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#book117of350 #amreading #netgalley #tbrpile #instareads #readstagram #reading #bookreview #bookreviewer #booklover #booksAreLife #booksForTheWin #thisbookfairyisreading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookstagramfeature #bookshelf #booksofinstagram #bookish #bookworm #goodreads #booklovers #theSGbookfairyReads #theSGtrekkiereads #bookaholic #bookaddict #bookchallenge2025 #reviews #lovebooks #booknerds
September 7, 2025
Arree Chung’s graphic novel, “Don’t Cause Trouble,” encapsulates one view on the middle school experience. His words and illustrations reveal the emotional complexities 12 year old Ming confronts growing up Chinese-American in a dual-language and immigrant family. In middle school Ming feels misunderstood. He’s burdened by family needs, ostracized by some classmates, achievement oriented and longing for peer acceptance. When understanding does not come easily for Ming, he creates his own solutions and at the end takes on more than he bargained for. With his dad’s guidance, a mom’s prayer and his own steps forward he finds his path.
I appreciate Arree’s authentic voice, diverse perspective, and his honest approach to struggles of middle school sometimes not addressed. I believe this story can encourage better understanding amongst middle schoolers’ by creating cultural awareness. Middle school children are ‘becoming’ and when they confront others' stories, different from their own, they will begin to listen and see their world in a new way.
I appreciate Arree’s authentic voice, diverse perspective, and his honest approach to struggles of middle school sometimes not addressed. I believe this story can encourage better understanding amongst middle schoolers’ by creating cultural awareness. Middle school children are ‘becoming’ and when they confront others' stories, different from their own, they will begin to listen and see their world in a new way.
February 16, 2025
“Get good grades! Don’t cause trouble!”
🏀
Ming Lee is headed to middle school, but he wants new clothes, new shoes to play basketball in and a cool new haircut. Too bad his parents never spend money frivolously. Every penny must be pinched, but Ming’s mother always make sure to give tithing st her church. This confuses Ming and he searches for ways to make money on his own so he can buy the newest kicks, but a bad decision lands him in trouble with his two best friends.
👿
I adored this upper MG graphic novel! It was funny, heartwarming, relatable and the artwork is in my favorite style for graphic novels Don’t Cause Trouble is a work of fiction, but the author pulled from childhood experiences similar to what Ming goes through. This book releases April 22. Add it to your TBR immediately!
CW: bullying, racism, racial slurs, poverty, xenophobia, heart attack/illness (discussed), theft, arrest
4.5 ⭐️
🏀
Ming Lee is headed to middle school, but he wants new clothes, new shoes to play basketball in and a cool new haircut. Too bad his parents never spend money frivolously. Every penny must be pinched, but Ming’s mother always make sure to give tithing st her church. This confuses Ming and he searches for ways to make money on his own so he can buy the newest kicks, but a bad decision lands him in trouble with his two best friends.
👿
I adored this upper MG graphic novel! It was funny, heartwarming, relatable and the artwork is in my favorite style for graphic novels Don’t Cause Trouble is a work of fiction, but the author pulled from childhood experiences similar to what Ming goes through. This book releases April 22. Add it to your TBR immediately!
CW: bullying, racism, racial slurs, poverty, xenophobia, heart attack/illness (discussed), theft, arrest
4.5 ⭐️
April 28, 2025
Review from my little sister (12yo):
Ming Lee is starting middle school, and he wants nothing more than to fit in. But with a loser haircut like his and clothes from the thrift store, that dream is starting to fade in the distance. Despite these challenges, he is determined to change things and become the cool kid, using a little mischief to achieve this despite his dad's constant warnings not to cause trouble.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, reading it in one sitting. It has been a while since I read a middle school comedy graphic novel, so I was delighted to read this one. In my opinion, Ming Lee was a pretty average kid—just a normal boy who wanted to fit in. However, I liked him better with his bowl cut. His friends seem like friendly guys with whom I would love to be friends. Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a good read.
Happy Reading, Laly ❤️ 📚
Thank you, @netgalley, for the complimentary ARC; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ming Lee is starting middle school, and he wants nothing more than to fit in. But with a loser haircut like his and clothes from the thrift store, that dream is starting to fade in the distance. Despite these challenges, he is determined to change things and become the cool kid, using a little mischief to achieve this despite his dad's constant warnings not to cause trouble.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, reading it in one sitting. It has been a while since I read a middle school comedy graphic novel, so I was delighted to read this one. In my opinion, Ming Lee was a pretty average kid—just a normal boy who wanted to fit in. However, I liked him better with his bowl cut. His friends seem like friendly guys with whom I would love to be friends. Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a good read.
Happy Reading, Laly ❤️ 📚
Thank you, @netgalley, for the complimentary ARC; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 29, 2025
12yo Ming wants to meet his parent's expectations. "Get good grades" "Be a good boy" and "Don't cause trouble." But starting middle school is hard. He has the same bowl haircut his mom has always given him, and his clothes have been bought at a thrift store. He knows he has no chance of being popular. Starting the year in an ESL class he doesn't need (he doesn't speak Chinese and was born in the United States), he makes friends in the cafeteria - Marcus and Vikrum. Ming isn't popular, but school is so much better with friends.
Don't Cause Trouble is a great story about trying to fit in. Ming's parents struggle to make money, his mother's cleaning job includes dealing with a racist who continually calls her bad words (represented in characters). Ming is also desperate to make money, trying to sell his Halloween candy. He's not an immigrant, his parents are, and we learn their back story. I know my middle school population can relate. Ming's family is Chinese.
Don't Cause Trouble is a great story about trying to fit in. Ming's parents struggle to make money, his mother's cleaning job includes dealing with a racist who continually calls her bad words (represented in characters). Ming is also desperate to make money, trying to sell his Halloween candy. He's not an immigrant, his parents are, and we learn their back story. I know my middle school population can relate. Ming's family is Chinese.
March 30, 2025
Don't Cause Trouble is about Ming, a Chinese American who is about to start middle school. His parents are immigrants from China and have brought their beliefs and ethics with them, influencing how Ming grows up. As he battles through his bowl cut, his thrifted clothing and other assumptions based on his looks he learns he doesn't have to sacrifice his culture to be popular at school.
I loved that the author put Chinese into this book with the english translations below to give it a more realistic feel. His artwork was great and the story moved along nicely, showing Ming as he grew as a person. The author took a lot of the story from his childhood and it shows in the realism and flow.
What a fun story with a perfect look into the perspective of a child with immigrant parents.
Thank you NetGalley for an ARC
I loved that the author put Chinese into this book with the english translations below to give it a more realistic feel. His artwork was great and the story moved along nicely, showing Ming as he grew as a person. The author took a lot of the story from his childhood and it shows in the realism and flow.
What a fun story with a perfect look into the perspective of a child with immigrant parents.
Thank you NetGalley for an ARC
June 24, 2025
Ming is a 12-year-old starting middle school, and like many middle schoolers, one of his main goals is simply to fit in. However, that is not always easy. He has an unwanted bowl cut, thrift store clothes, and is the furthest possible person from popular. But, he finds his people--caring and welcoming friends. And although some parts of his life are going well, temptations also make staying "okay" hard to do.
I found this book online a few months back and discovered it recently at my local bookstore. In my pursuit to find books with Asian characters and authors, I just had to get a copy. Being that I live and teach in Thailand, I was surprised to discover the main character's parents (and author's parents) have ties to Thailand. Yet, for me the book was just okay--nothing amazing or disappointing. A solid, middle-of-the-road graphic novel. Recommended for GR 6-7.
I found this book online a few months back and discovered it recently at my local bookstore. In my pursuit to find books with Asian characters and authors, I just had to get a copy. Being that I live and teach in Thailand, I was surprised to discover the main character's parents (and author's parents) have ties to Thailand. Yet, for me the book was just okay--nothing amazing or disappointing. A solid, middle-of-the-road graphic novel. Recommended for GR 6-7.
August 2, 2025
Ming is one of the few Asian kids in school and he hopes to persuade his parents, just this once, to take him shopping for new, not thrift-store, clothes so he can have a great beginning to middle school. His parents, however, are quite set in their ways. Even so, he is able to make a couple of friends who are misfits just like him. When one of his friends gives him a new haircut, the other friend fixes it. That haircut seems to be the catalyst for a series of changes in Ming that his friends don't like, changes that get both Ming and his friends into trouble, the one thing his parents always tell him not to do. In the end, Ming must decide whether being cool or having friends is more important. I really enjoyed Ming's struggles to fit in and to be content with what he has. My only complaint is that I feel the book ended a bit abruptly.
September 5, 2025
A solidly enjoyable middle grade graphic novel about struggling to fit in as an Asian-American kid. In the case of Don't Cause Trouble the struggle is mostly with Ming's family - he's more American than Asian, and it doesn't help that his family isn't striking it rich in America like they hoped. Ming chafes against thrift shopping and always giving away money to their church.
It helps that Ming has some new friends who, conveniently, are also minorities/immigrants, meaning they have a shared understanding. Don't Cause Trouble mostly follows the usual preteen plotline: trying to figure out where you fit in, making bad choices and dealing with them, GIRLS. The mix of family and friend plotlines is handled well and the pacing never drags. There's a nice happy ending too, one that feels plenty earned.
It helps that Ming has some new friends who, conveniently, are also minorities/immigrants, meaning they have a shared understanding. Don't Cause Trouble mostly follows the usual preteen plotline: trying to figure out where you fit in, making bad choices and dealing with them, GIRLS. The mix of family and friend plotlines is handled well and the pacing never drags. There's a nice happy ending too, one that feels plenty earned.
November 9, 2025
Graphic novel for ages 8-12, this is not an actual memoir, but takes place in the time of the author's youth, and is based on his experiences. Probably the '80s, but it doesn't say. There are video games but no cell phones. I really enjoyed the story of the first year of middle school for an Asian American son of immigrants. He grows up a bit, learning lessons from his parents, but mostly his friends who are also POC. Fun and meaningful, contains some religious parts and some "getting in trouble", but not much. Ming just needs to get his head screwed on right, an figure out what's important. "Fitting in", and nice clothes/shoes are not what make you happy. Being yourself, being creative and assertive, being a good friend. Great family photos at the end, author's note, and step-by-step instructions to make a graphic novel.
October 30, 2024
This was a really strong graphic novel! I felt like the chapters broke the story up in a very digestible way. I loved how they utilized pinyin alongside the english translations to incorporate mandarin more prominently into the dialogue. I loved the building of friendships and the way the relationships were shown between the MC and parents where the parents had realistic faults, but were still very much there for their child. I also found the author specifically added discussion of the common experiences between minority groups juxtaposed with how different groups still face distinct discrimination concerns. I'm interested in reading more of this author's work and would definitely recommend this for anyone looking for middle grade reads.
November 3, 2024
I received this as an ARC through NetGalley.
Being in middle school is tough enough, but being in middle school as the child of a financially struggling immigrant family makes life that much more difficult.
I. Loved. This. Graphic novels are such an important part of literary writing at this point in time, especially with how accessible they are to children and adults of all ages. To have this written for kids (And adults!) who experience life with the added difficulties of being immigrants made my thoughts on this book that much better. I cannot relate to being anyone else in this society other than a white woman, but what makes “Don’t Cause Trouble” so good is the fact that even in the face of adversity, we are able to witness kids just being kids.
Being in middle school is tough enough, but being in middle school as the child of a financially struggling immigrant family makes life that much more difficult.
I. Loved. This. Graphic novels are such an important part of literary writing at this point in time, especially with how accessible they are to children and adults of all ages. To have this written for kids (And adults!) who experience life with the added difficulties of being immigrants made my thoughts on this book that much better. I cannot relate to being anyone else in this society other than a white woman, but what makes “Don’t Cause Trouble” so good is the fact that even in the face of adversity, we are able to witness kids just being kids.
February 5, 2025
Graphic Novel
I received an electronic ARC from Macmillan Children's Publishing Group through NetGalley.
Ming struggles with starting middle school. His family are immigrants from China through Thailand though he is American. He does not speak Chinese but ends up placed in ESL anyway. He finds a couple friends and readers see how this friendship grows and changes as they do also. Ming feels frustrations at home as his parents don't always listen to what he needs and place strong expectations on him. We see growth in this relationship as well after Ming makes a huge mistake. By the end of the book, the family has found a way to earn more income and have found ways to communicate and listen. Readers will connect to the family and friend dynamics as well as the yearning to feel "normal."
I received an electronic ARC from Macmillan Children's Publishing Group through NetGalley.
Ming struggles with starting middle school. His family are immigrants from China through Thailand though he is American. He does not speak Chinese but ends up placed in ESL anyway. He finds a couple friends and readers see how this friendship grows and changes as they do also. Ming feels frustrations at home as his parents don't always listen to what he needs and place strong expectations on him. We see growth in this relationship as well after Ming makes a huge mistake. By the end of the book, the family has found a way to earn more income and have found ways to communicate and listen. Readers will connect to the family and friend dynamics as well as the yearning to feel "normal."
April 9, 2025
I got approved for an eARC, thank you NetGalley!
Ming goes through school feeling like he doesn’t fit in. Until 1 day he creates a friendship with two other students. Through out the graphic novel we see how his friendship is explored between the two new friends with different cultures and backgrounds, while also trying to navigate his own being in school where he feels embarrassed for having to thrift clothes because his parents dont have enough money, being placed in ESL when English is his first language, and feeling like he doesn’t belong because he looks different. All the characters seem to grow/change after a situation occurs with the 3 friends, tying it all together in the end. “Be yourself. It’s okay to be different”
Ming goes through school feeling like he doesn’t fit in. Until 1 day he creates a friendship with two other students. Through out the graphic novel we see how his friendship is explored between the two new friends with different cultures and backgrounds, while also trying to navigate his own being in school where he feels embarrassed for having to thrift clothes because his parents dont have enough money, being placed in ESL when English is his first language, and feeling like he doesn’t belong because he looks different. All the characters seem to grow/change after a situation occurs with the 3 friends, tying it all together in the end. “Be yourself. It’s okay to be different”
July 7, 2025
I’m SO glad I bought the hardcover of this book. It’s going on my bookshelf to be read again and again. I haven’t enjoyed reading a book this much in such a long time. There are loads of reviews detailing the story so I won’t get into that. Let me just say I laughed out loud, I cried, and I got all emotional reading Ming’s story. I connected with the characters. And I recognized so many of the situations that come with being an outsider trying to fit in. I highly recommend this book for everyone, kids and adults. Sometimes we need a reminder that being kind and thoughtful to another’s plight is the way to go. This book will help with that.
This wonderful Graphic Novel gets my ‘Huggable Book Award.’ I LOVED IT!
This wonderful Graphic Novel gets my ‘Huggable Book Award.’ I LOVED IT!
October 25, 2024
**Thank you NetGalley and Macmillian Children's Publishing Group for a copy of this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review***
This was such a cute story! I loved following Ming's journey through navigating the world of middle school. Adding in the friends who feel similar to him was also extra special. This is such a fun little story for kids who might be trying to navigate the same kind of situation as Ming. I also think this story be relatable to a lot of kids and not just those who are immigrants. It's a very relatable subject all the way through. The art work was also super cute. It was perfectly aligned with the story and all the characters were clear and concise.
This was such a cute story! I loved following Ming's journey through navigating the world of middle school. Adding in the friends who feel similar to him was also extra special. This is such a fun little story for kids who might be trying to navigate the same kind of situation as Ming. I also think this story be relatable to a lot of kids and not just those who are immigrants. It's a very relatable subject all the way through. The art work was also super cute. It was perfectly aligned with the story and all the characters were clear and concise.
March 19, 2025
Reading 2025
Book 68: Don't Cause Trouble by Arree Chung
Got this as an advanced reader copy from #NTTBF, pub day for this middle grade GN is April 22. Kicking off my March reading with lots of books I purchased from #NTTBF.
Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Ming Lee hopes middle school will be the fresh start he needs. Perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier and Jerry Craft, Don’t Cause Trouble is a funny, warmhearted graphic novel that will resonate with readers who are looking for a place to belong.
Review: This was a cute book, all the middle school angst is here. Ming finds his people and he learns to be himself despite the bowl haircut and old clothes. My rating 3.5⭐️.
Book 68: Don't Cause Trouble by Arree Chung
Got this as an advanced reader copy from #NTTBF, pub day for this middle grade GN is April 22. Kicking off my March reading with lots of books I purchased from #NTTBF.
Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Ming Lee hopes middle school will be the fresh start he needs. Perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier and Jerry Craft, Don’t Cause Trouble is a funny, warmhearted graphic novel that will resonate with readers who are looking for a place to belong.
Review: This was a cute book, all the middle school angst is here. Ming finds his people and he learns to be himself despite the bowl haircut and old clothes. My rating 3.5⭐️.
October 28, 2025
Sweet and goofy autobiographically-inspired about a Chinese-American kid embarking on the adventure of MIDDLE SCHOOL! Middle school is a time when you're starting to have opinions about how you look and how you want to be perceived by others, but your parents/caregivers still dictate a lot about how you access changing your appearance. It's a critical time for learning how and when to advocate for yourself.
I really liked the bright illustrations and general tone here. Felt very true to middle schoolers everywhere. Also dug Ming's group of friends, and the specificity of his parents.
Probably going to take this out to middle schools in 2025-2026.
I really liked the bright illustrations and general tone here. Felt very true to middle schoolers everywhere. Also dug Ming's group of friends, and the specificity of his parents.
Probably going to take this out to middle schools in 2025-2026.
December 2, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. I love to see how some kids realize that being "popular" isn't important, but being yourself is important. This book is a graphic novel that shows not everyone is happy with themselves. Even the "popular" kids may not feel "popular." I think this book would be great for grades 4-6. I also liked how parents try their hardest to save money and do the best they can to raise children, even if they come from another country or another part of town. The title and cover of the book will attract children.
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