By Allyson Mower

From a graphic novel showcasing original art created during Japanese American internment to a documentary on the art of tatau, honor Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month with these great selections from the library’s general collection.

Citizen 13660, artist edition 
By Mine Okubo

In an inspiring display of humanity while actively being denied it, this graphic memoir uses text plus charcoal drawings to tell the story of incarceration at Topaz. 

(artist’s work currently on display at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts)

Cheers to Muses: Contemporary Works by Asian American Women, 
Edited by Asian American Women Artists Association

The group that helped put together “Pictures of Belonging” currently on exhibition at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts also produced this book-based reproductions of fine art created by Asian American women.

Where We Once Belonged
By Sia Figiel

This novel from Samoan poet Sia Figiel is the first novel published in the United States by a female Samoan (by Kaya Press). It offers a compelling coming-of-age story. 

Pouliuli
By Albert Wendt

One of the first Samoan males to publish widely and internationally (including in the United States) serves as a deep commentary on Samoan life and community. 

Skin Stories (documentary)
By Pacific Islanders in Communications

Enjoy this engaging documentary from a Samoan-owned publishing company about the storytelling and meaning behind tatau. It was featured in the exhibition Tatau at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts in 2023.