35 pages • 1 hour read
They Called Us Enemy
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Book Brief
208
Graphic Novel/Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1940s
2019
Adult
12+ years
GN680L
Super Short Summary
They Called Us Enemy by George Takei, illustrated by Harmony Becker, is a graphic memoir of Takei's childhood in Japanese internment camps during WWII. Framed by Takei's modern-day talk at President Roosevelt's home, it chronicles his family's relocation to Camp Rohwer, dealing with their internment's hardships, the Loyalty Questionnaire, and eventual transfer to Camp Tule Lake. Post-war, they move to Los Angeles, where Takei's career in theater, particularly his role in Star Trek, enables him to promote tolerance and inclusivity. Sensitive topics of war, incarceration, and displacement are depicted.
Informative
Emotional
Contemplative
Melancholic
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
51,837 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
They Called Us Enemy by George Takei is a poignant graphic memoir that intricately depicts the injustices of Japanese American internment during WWII through evocative illustrations and compelling storytelling. Praised for its emotional depth and educational value, it occasionally receives critique for its simplistic dialogue. Overall, it is a powerful and accessible read.
Who Should Read They Called Us Enemy?
Fans of biographical graphic novels will appreciate George Takei's They Called Us Enemy. Readers who enjoyed Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi or March by John Lewis and Andrew Aydin—books that blend personal history with broader social issues—will find a compelling narrative on resilience and justice in Takei’s work.
51,837 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Takekuma Norman Takei
Takekuma Norman Takei
George's father, who experiences the internment camps with a burden of responsibility for his family, and is depicted as a community leader who struggles with complex emotions about his circumstances.
Fumiko Emily Nakamura
Fumiko Emily Nakamura
George's mother, known for her compassionate and steadfast nature, who prioritizes her family’s well-being under challenging circumstances and faces profound internal conflict over her national identity.
208
Graphic Novel/Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1940s
2019
Adult
12+ years
GN680L
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