Graphic Novel

But, Where Are You REALLY From?

Sharing Japanese American history with students through visual storytelling

The National Japanese American Memorial Foundation is proud to support the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) DC Chapter in presenting their exciting new educational resource—a graphic novel called, But, Where Are You REALLY From? This innovative tool, designed to enrich the educational landscape, narrates the compelling story of Japanese Americans through themes of immigration, incarceration, and the fight against anti-Asian hate.

In collaboration with Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) in Maryland, the novel is set to be incorporated into the U.S. history curriculum for MCPS fifth graders starting May 2024. The graphic novel seamlessly aligns with MCPS’s enhanced curriculum, which emphasizes social studies, social justice, and social-emotional learning. It aims to cultivate critical thinking and foster a sense of inclusive citizenship by integrating stories of previously marginalized communities into the broader narrative of American history. Annually, around 12,000 students will engage with this novel, ensuring its message resonates with thousands of young minds, along with their families, friends, and communities for years to come. 

The title, But, Where Are You REALLY From?, is a question that is often asked to people of color because some assume they are not Americans due to their appearance. The question creates an “other” dynamic and implies that a person of color is an outsider or does not belong. This graphic novel seeks to broaden the audience’s understanding of the contributions of the Japanese American community to the United States. 

The graphic novel’s narrative was born from interviews with members of the Japanese American community, capturing their experiences during World War II—including stories from a 101-year-old veteran of the all-Japanese American 442nd Regimental Combat Team, and two 97-year-old women who endured U.S. incarceration camps. Authored by Linda Sato Adams, Janice Nakano Faden, and Stephanie Miyeko Rowe, with illustrations by Vicky Yuh, infographics by Rowe, and maps by Geoffrey Cheung, the novel follows Emi Kobayashi, a fifth grader. Tasked with exploring her family's history, Emi's journey of discovery with her Grandma May not only unveils her ancestry but also connects past injustices with ongoing societal issues.

The National Japanese American Memorial Foundation is proud to sponsor this project alongside the Japanese American Veterans Association, the JA Community Foundation, the JACL Legacy Grant Fund, and the local JACL DC Chapter. This collaborative effort underscores a collective commitment to educating future generations about the complexities of our shared history, ensuring a more inclusive society.