Displacement

by Kiku Hughes
Displacement cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Graphic Novels / Comics
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  • ID: 8163
  • Added: 2025-12-20
  • Updated: 2025-12-20
  • ISBN: 9781250801623
  • Publisher: First Second
  • Published: 2020-08-18
  • Reviews: 3

Displacement is a historical graphic novel by Kiku Hughes that combines personal family history with a broader exploration of a dark chapter in American history. The story follows Kiku, a teenager who finds herself displaced back in time to the 1940s, where she experiences the Japanese-American internment camps firsthand alongside her young grandmother. Through vivid illustrations and a compelling narrative, Hughes sheds light on the intergenerational impact of these events and the power of memory to connect past and present. /n/n The novel is not just a historical account but also a deeply personal journey for Kiku, who gains a new understanding of her family's past and the broader struggles of Japanese-Americans during WWII. Hughes' work is a poignant reminder of the importance of remembering and learning from history, making it a significant contribution to both graphic novel literature and historical education.

Reviews
LA Review of Books · 2021-10-09
thought-provoking 4.20

The novel has the feel of a memory, with sharp details near the protagonist and blurred edges in the distance. It effectively conveys the trauma of incarceration.

The reviewer from LA Review of Books noted the novel's unique artistic style, which mimics the feel of a memory with sharp details near the protagonist and blurred edges in the distance. They found this style to be particularly effective in conveying the trauma and emotional impact of incarceration. The reviewer appreciates how the novel balances personal storytelling with broader historical context, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read that stays with the reader long after finishing.

Quick quotes

    Displacement has the feel of a memory, sharper near Kiku and blurred in the distance

    Effectively conveys the trauma and emotional impact of incarceration

    A compelling and thought-provoking read that stays with the reader

Righter of Words · 2020-09-19
gorgeous 4.50

This graphic novel is gorgeous and moving, with a strong and adaptable protagonist. It offers an eye-opening perspective on a significant historical event.

The reviewer from Righter of Words was deeply moved by this graphic novel, praising its beautiful artwork and the protagonist's strength and adaptability. They found the story to be eye-opening and emotionally impactful, offering a unique perspective on a significant historical event. The reviewer appreciates how the novel balances personal storytelling with broader historical context, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    This is a gorgeous, moving, eye-opening graphic novel

    Kiku is a strong protagonist, adaptable and sweet and brave

    Offers a unique perspective on a significant historical event

The Library Ladies · Kate · 2020-08-20
powerful 4.00

This graphic novel is a powerful introduction to a difficult subject, perfect for young audiences. It handles the topic with sensitivity and depth.

Kate from The Library Ladies found this graphic novel to be a powerful and moving exploration of a complex historical issue. She appreciates how it approaches the subject with sensitivity, making it accessible and engaging for younger readers. The story's emotional depth and the protagonist's journey resonate strongly, making it a valuable read for both personal growth and educational purposes.

Quick quotes

    A powerful graphic novel and the perfect introduction to the subject for tween and teen audiences

    Takes on a difficult subject with sensitivity and depth

    A valuable read for both personal growth and educational purposes

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