The writing was done by Takei, Eisinger, and Scott, with Becker creating the grey-scale, manga-inspired illustrations.[1][2]
The memoirs focusing on Takei's time as a child take up the bulk of the work, and the "harsh reality" and "minutiae of daily life" occur back and forth.[3] Throughout the book, "Takei describe[s] how these early experiences in the camps shaped his subsequent coming of age both in the theater and in politics."[1]
A Spanish-language translation of the book was released in June 2020,[4] as well as an expanded edition in July 2020 including bonus material.[1]
Creation and conception
The book's writing began in early 2017, and the writing process concluded in the beginning of 2018.[5]:215 In the latter year, the producers of the comic hired the artist.[5]:216
The writers used Allegiance and To The Stars as inspiration. The research process involved books, documents, film, and photographic works.[5]:215Clip Studio Paint was used to create the artwork, and the work intended to have inspiration from American artwork and Japanese artwork.[5]:216
Kirkus Reviews stated that the work is "A powerful reminder of a history" and that the images "effectively convey the intense emotions and the stark living conditions."[6]Booklist's Sarah Hunter also discussed the images, stating, "Becker’s spare, fine-lined, manga-inspired artwork focuses intently on faces and body language, keeping the story centered in the realm of the personal."[7] Hunter concluded by writing, "This approachable, well-wrought graphic memoir is important reading, particularly in today’s political climate."[7]
Publishers Weekly wrote, "Giving a personal view into difficult history, Takei’s work is a testament to hope and tenacity in the face of adversity."[8]
Writing for The New York Times, Ed Park praised the "pure" "power of the story" and how the artwork is "clear, empathic." However, according to Park, the shifting to the past and the present day occurs too often, and due to so many people collaborating on the work at the same time, "There are some glitches."[2]
Michael Cavna of the Washington Post argued that the book strongly echoed civil rights activist John Lewis' autobiographical graphic novel trilogy March, which told the story of Lewis' work in the civil rights movement, and that Top Shelf, which published both books, appeared to be positioning Takei's memoir to be a similar hit, inasmuch as like March, it was written to be accessible to older grade-schoolers, and was marketed via appearances by Takei at fan convention.[9]
Kirkus Reviews named They Called Us Enemy one of the best books of the year.[6] The book also "claimed the top spot on PW’s annual Graphic Novel Critic’s Poll," an annual review "compiled by asking participating critics to list up to 10 trade book releases they consider the best graphic novel and comics works of the year."[1]
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