by Jeff Yang
First published 2022
Jeff Yang, Phil Yu, and Philip Wang examine how Asian Americans transformed from cultural invisibility to mainstream prominence across three decades. The authors trace this evolution through interactive graphics, charts tracking representation changes, and insider perspectives on each era. They document the rise of phenomena like sushi's universal appeal, BTS becoming a global sensation, and Crazy Rich Asians achieving blockbuster status. The book features graphic essays from major Asian American artists and exclusive conversations with cultural figures. Yang, Yu, and Wang provide decade-by-decade narratives showing how activists, executives, entertainers, and social media creators built today's diverse landscape of Asian American representation. The authors present their analysis through engaging visual elements, including guided tours of cultural spaces and data visualizations of industry trends. Rise celebrates the community's journey while acknowledging this cultural moment represents just the beginning of Asian American influence.
Genres: non-fiction, 21st-century, activism, asian-american, cultural-studies
Vibes: informative, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: cultural-exploration, social-commentary
Setting: Asia, United States
Period: 1990s, 2000s, 2010s
496 pages · Hardcover · Harper