The phasing of that is obviously tone-deaf, but I can't object to the principle. Would you read something that mentioned "the narrow, slit-like eyes of Chin Loo"? Didn't think so.
The better solution is obviously to include whatever characters you want but write them well. However, since the authors of that time seemingly couldn't write Chinese characters well, leaving Chinese people out entirely makes for better literature.
The better solution is obviously to include whatever characters you want but write them well. However, since the authors of that time seemingly couldn't write Chinese characters well, leaving Chinese people out entirely makes for better literature.