Unveiling the Rich AANHPI Heritage Through Fighting to Belong! Volume II

Celebrating AANHPI History with "Fighting to Belong! Volume II"

On May 22, 2025, an exciting new chapter in Asian American literature was unveiled with the release of "Fighting to Belong! Volume II" by The Asian American Foundation (TAAF) and Third State Books. This graphic novel is the second entry in a compelling three-part series, aimed at providing young readers (aged 8-13) with a rich understanding of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) history. Accessible in hardcover, paperback, and digital formats, this volume emphasizes the importance of historical awareness within the American context.

The novel is crafted by the renowned comics writer Amy Chu, alongside Alexander Chang, and is beautifully illustrated by Louie Chin, known for his work on "Bodega Cat." The storyline revolves around four middle school students who embark on a time-traveling adventure with their guide, Kenji. Together, they explore pivotal moments in AANHPI history during the turbulent 20th century, including significant events such as the Philippine-American War and the injustices faced during World War II's Japanese American incarceration. The book also shines a light on the civil rights achievements of notable figures like Dalip Singh Saund and Patsy Mink.

As Norman Chen, CEO of TAAF, highlights, "Education is key to fostering connection and understanding, and Fighting to Belong! shows that AANHPI history is American history." This sentiment resonates strongly within the community, as many AANHPI narratives have often been overlooked in traditional educational curricula. This novel seeks to remedy that by integrating valuable lessons from the past.

Stephanie Lim, Co-Founder and CEO of Third State Books, expresses her desire for the project: "This is the history my generation was never taught in school—and the one our children deserve. At Third State Books, we believe storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for belonging. We're not just publishing books, we're reshaping what it looks like to belong in America." This initiative directly addresses the gaps in education regarding AANHPI contributions to the United States.

Volume II’s vibrant storytelling and artwork not only navigate through historical challenges but also celebrate the resilience and achievements of AANHPI leaders like Duke Kahanamoku, Anna May Wong, Fred Korematsu, and Grace Lee Boggs. To further support educators, the series is accompanied by a comprehensive curriculum guide developed by The Asian American Education Project, ensuring the material is classroom-ready and enriches the learning experience.

The first volume, which debuted in 2024, explored AANHPI experiences during the 18th and 19th centuries, paving the way for this latest publication. Anticipation is already building for Volume III, which will encompass the complexities of the 21st century, delving into post-9/11 dynamics for South Asian Americans and the unfortunate rise in anti-Asian hate correlated with the COVID-19 pandemic, projected for release in 2026.

TAAF’s broader mission is evident through this series, challenging misconceptions about AANHPI communities while advocating for the incorporation of Asian American studies in K-12 educational settings. The foundation's fifth annual STAATUS Index, released on May 1, indicates a significant knowledge gap regarding major AANHPI figures and history among many Americans. However, it also reflects widespread support for initiatives aimed at uplifting AANHPI communities.

In addition to the book release, TAAF has recently introduced innovative features in its AAPI History Hub, an online educational platform providing K-12 educators with access to a plethora of high-quality, classroom-ready curricular resources covering AANHPI history. These resources are instrumental in bridging the knowledge gap and fostering a more inclusive educational environment for future generations.

To make a difference in the representation of AANHPI narratives, The Asian American Foundation continues to invest in initiatives that combat anti-Asian hate, integrate AANHPI studies into school curricula, and elevate authentic AANHPI storytelling. As TAAF embarks on these pivotal projects, it strives to create a permanent sense of belonging for millions of AANHPIs in the United States.

For more information on this pivotal release and additional resources, you can visit TAAF's website or explore the catalog at Third State Books.