Books: Mike Curato Is A Main Character
This week we’re hitting the books with author and illustrator Mike Curato to discuss Gaysians, his debut adult graphic novel, about a queer Asian friend group becoming a chosen family in 2003 Seattle.
Plus, Mike fills us in on authentic queer Asian representation, building coalitions during challenging times, and how his time in Seattle shaped the “Boy Luck Club.
So, push this book to the front of your TBR pile because Mike Curato is coming to the city. He'll be at Queer/Bar in Seattle on June 17th, 2025 to talk about Gaysians with local drag queen Aleksa Manila.
And… if you need some help filling that post-reading void. Here’s Mike and Katie’s Recommended If You Liked (RIYL): Gaysians.
- The Wedding Banquet (2025)
- How to Write an Autobiographical Novel by Alexander Chee
- The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan
- Cuckoo by Gretchen Felker-Martin
Other event recommendations from this week’s episode:
- Queer Book Fair at Charlie's Queer Books in Fremont on June 14-15, 2025
- Octavia E. Butler Birthday Bash on June 22, 2025
- Twelfth Night – ACT Contemporary Theatre from June 7 – 22, 2025
-
Katie Campbell
Online Editor/Reporter
Katie joined KUOW's online team as an editor and reporter in 2024, after serving three years as senior producer of the local Morning Edition program. She has covered a variety of local topics, including the Seattle City Council, elections, and breaking news. She also brings readers some levity with a weekly news quiz.
More stories from Katie Campbell » -
Brandi Fullwood
Senior Producer
Brandi Fullwood is a senior producer for KUOW’s midday show Soundside. She joined KUOW in 2019 as a producer on The Record and was promoted to her current position in 2021. She has produced a range of stories from dinosaur experts to misinformation in the 2020 election. They’ve also produced and reported pieces for other KUOW programs like Seattle Now.
More stories from Brandi Fullwood »
