by Jeff Yang
First published 2012
This anthology presents original graphic stories that demolish tired Asian stereotypes through darker comic genres. The collection moves beyond superhero conventions into pulp fiction, horror, adventure, fantasy, and science fiction territory. Leading Asian American comics creators like Bernard Chang, Sean Chen, Cliff Chiang, Larry Hama, Greg Pak, and Gene Yang contribute alongside film and literary talents including Jamie Ford and Tanuj Chopra. Their stories range from ethnic children's television programs and China's AIDS policies to airport security experiences. One tale reveals the backstory of Flash Gordon villain Ming the Merciless. Another follows a young gangster through Koreatown's streets. The anthology targets stereotypes like the silent enforcer, the genius student, the mysterious seductress, the unknowable outsider, and the scheming villain that have shaped Asian portrayals since early immigration waves.
Genres: adventure, graphic-novels, horror, action, comics
Vibes: dark, emotional, thought-provoking
Tropes: dark-academia, found-family
208 pages · Paperback · The New Press
Content warnings: racism, sexism