If you’re reading this article that means by now you’ve totally binged at least two seasons of Avatar: The Last Airbender (we’re meant to be friends). However, the world of Avatar Aang doesn’t have to end when the screen goes black. Similar to the complex worlds of Harry Potter and Games of Thrones (but way more diverse); the world created by Michael Dante DiMartino was only scratched at the surface with the hit Nickelodeon television show (let’s pretend that movie never existed). There are several books that continue Team Avatar’s story and some that give a voice to characters we only caught a glimpse of in the show. Plus it’s Asian American Heritage month, so what better opportunity to showcase amazing authors and cartoonists.
Avatar content and introducing you to some amazing authors for Asian American Heritage Month? I call that an sweet deal! Let’s start!
The Promise
The Promise felt like the right place to start off; although there a couple comics before this one, this graphic novel picks up where we left our group. I spent years wondering how Team Avatar fared off after Aang’s fight with Firelord Ozai and this graphic novel shows you exactly that. The book was a collaborative effort between show-creators Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko, as well as Gene Luen Yang, plus the Japanese art team Gurihiru. The Promise originally tells it’s story over three comics, but this anthology-like graphic novel sustains all three stories. In The Promise Parts 1-3, Avatar Aang and his friends must join forces again because peace is threatened due to an issue between Fire Lord Zuko and Earth King Kuei. All is at risk, including peace between the four nations and the friendship between Zuko and Aang. Gene Luen Yang truly keeps you engaged and Gurihiru’s authentic illustrations transport you. Stacey’s tip: definitely get the hardcover!
The Rise of Kyoshi
A book with no pictures about an avatar besides Aang? No you’re not trapped in the Spirit Library. Now I may have lured you in with promises about Aang, but Avatar Kyoshi is no chopped liver. In fact, she’s Aang’s real competition for my favorite Avatar (you’re still my girl Korra). Nonetheless, when I saw her during Aang’s trip at Kyoshi Island, I immediately thought: she’s a complete badass. I quietly hoped she would’ve been the spin-off after Aang’s adventures; after-all she was the oldest living Avatar, think of stories she could tell! Finally, F.C. Yee blessed us with a book that explores the woman that was Avatar Kyoshi. The Rise of Kyoshi showcases a teenage girl’s humble beginnings and her journey to a pursuer of justice who produced a legacy that lasted centuries. Be on the lookout for F. C. Yee’s followup The Shadow of Kyoshi which comes out this July!
The Search
It’s my last recommendation so you know I had to go big! Not only is The Search a follow up from The Promise (it’s also written by the same team) but it’s about the age old question: what happened to Zuko’s Mom? Do I drop the mic now or later? This question has plagued this fanbase; sure in Avatar: The Last Airbender Zuko, Azula, and Ozai all gave hints, but never really answered the actual question. Then, to have the series finale end with Zuko asking his father the same question is borderline cruel people!
Just like The Promise, The Search is three parts all included in this large and beautiful graphic novel. Once again Gene Luen Yang enlists Avatar Aang and his gang to help Zuko answer this mystery; with the help of none other than Azula herself. As someone who loves Azula (it’s a complicated relationship) and Zuko (it’s a one-sided relationship) it’s definitely coming full circle. Grab your copy!
As we celebrate Asian American Heritage month let’s appreciate a show that not only provided an amazing source of representation for the Asian community; but provided a platform for Asian American artists, authors and actors to flourish. Pick up any of these amazing titles and it’ll be like Avatar never ended. Such a score,right? Happy reading and happy binge-watching!