Ralph Chang is the closest the novel has to a protagonist. The narrative traces his journey from his childhood in China, to his struggles to get by in America, to his idyllic family life in the suburbs, right up to the moment he almost loses everything. Ralph is a bundle of neuroses and character flaws. He is an intelligent man who struggles to apply his intelligence in any meaningful way. Ralph hurtles through life in a desperate attempt to resolve his innate pride and desire for success with his frequent failures.

The story of Ralph Chang is the story of a perpetual outsider. His father ostracizes him from the family when he is in China, a fear of the authorities disconnects him from his social group in New York, and a burning jealousy damages his relationships with his friends, family, and loved ones. He is in danger of losing his job, his immigration status, his family, and his home because he struggles to empathize with people. This struggle leads Ralph to trust all the wrong people. He is used and manipulated by people like Grover who does nothing but undermine his pride. Ralph’s damaged pride causes him to lash out at his family members and friends even when they are trying to help him.