Comics

They Called Us Enemy by George Takei: A Graphic Novel Review

George Takei’s graphic memoir, They Called Us Enemy, details his family’s internment alongside over 120,000 Japanese Americans during World War II. Co-written with Justin Eisinger and Steven Scott, the narrative explores the forced relocation and incarceration experience from the perspective of Takei as a child.

Illustrated by Harmony Becker in black and white, the book links historical events to modern themes of prejudice and government overreach. Comparable to memoirs like Maus and Persepolis, it receives high praise for using the comics medium to deliver a personal and educational historical account.

They Called Us Enemy by George Takei Review

There are graphic novels that entertain, graphic novels that educate, and graphic novels that leave a lasting impact long after you’ve finished them. They Called Us Enemy by George Takei accomplishes all three. Equal parts memoir, history lesson, and cautionary tale, it’s the kind of book that reminds you just how powerful the comics medium can be.

They Called Us Enemy
Words: George Takei, Justin Eisinger, Steven Scott
Art: Harmony Becker
Top Shelf Productions
Amazon
Goodreads

Some stories feel important. Others feel essential. They Called Us Enemy falls firmly into the second category.

George Takei’s memoir about his family’s internment during World War II is one of the most impactful graphic novels I’ve read. While many people know Takei from Star Trek, this book focuses on a chapter of American history that often doesn’t get nearly enough attention: the forced incarceration of more than 120,000 Japanese Americans following the attack on Pearl Harbor.

What makes the book so effective is its perspective. Rather than presenting the events as a dry history lesson, Takei tells the story through the eyes of his younger self. We experience the confusion, fear, and uncertainty alongside him as his family is removed from their home and sent to internment camps. The result is deeply personal and often heartbreaking.

Harmony Becker’s artwork perfectly complements the story. The clean black-and-white art carries tremendous emotional weight without ever feeling overly dramatic. Some of the most powerful moments come from simple expressions or quiet scenes that linger long after you’ve turned the page.

As I read, I found myself putting They Called Us Enemy in the same conversation as Maus and Persepolis. Like those landmark graphic memoirs, it uses the comics medium to make history feel immediate and human. These aren’t just stories about major historical events; they’re stories about families trying to survive them. That’s what makes them resonate so strongly.

The book also does an excellent job of connecting the past to the present. Takei doesn’t simply recount history; he challenges readers to think about how fear, prejudice, and government overreach continue to shape society today. The lessons feel just as relevant now as they were during the events depicted.

Whether you’re a longtime comics reader, a fan of historical nonfiction, or someone looking to better understand a painful chapter of American history, They Called Us Enemy is an easy recommendation.

Final Verdict

Score: 5/5: They Called Us Enemy is a powerful, educational, and deeply moving graphic memoir that belongs alongside works like Maus and Persepolis in any discussion of the medium’s greatest true stories.