They Called Us Enemy: Expanded Edition

In "They Called Us Enemy: Expanded Edition," readers are invited into the poignant childhood of George Takei, set against the backdrop of a dark period in American history. This deluxe hardcover edition, enriched with sixteen pages of bonus content, offers an intimate look at the creation of this New York Times bestselling graphic memoir. Through historical documents, sketches, and personal reflections, the book deepens our understanding of the forces that shaped an American icon and the nation itself. Published on August 25, 2020, the narrative unfolds with four-year-old Takei waking to a world where he and his family are uprooted and incarcerated in one of ten "relocation centers" by the U.S. government during World War II. This firsthand account captures the fear and resilience of a young boy growing up under the harsh conditions of legalized racism, illustrating pivotal moments of joy, the painful choices his mother made, and his father's enduring faith in democracy. Ideal for middle-school readers, "They Called Us Enemy" explores themes of immigrant rights and racial justice, posing critical questions about identity, belonging, and resilience: What does it mean to be American? Who decides? When facing overwhelming adversity, what can one person do? This edition not only recounts Takei's inspiring journey but also prompts young readers to reflect on their own views of history, justice, and humanity.