Synopsis: Thirty years ago, the young Peking Opera performer Yan Tieh-hua was wrongly convicted of the murder of her own family and sent to prison. Twenty years later she died while still incarcerated. Yet, today, this same woman has mysteriously returned as a superpowered teen in Peking Opera costume, determined to avenge the massacre of her family. (Books from Taiwan)

Yan, the awesome creation by the acclaimed Taiwanese graphic novel artist, Chang Sheng, is a groundbreaking addition to the world of graphic novels. As a Taiwanese superhero comic (possibly the very first one), it stands shoulder to shoulder with the works of DC and Marvel, and offers something uniquely Taiwanese, blending traditional Peking opera with modern science fiction.

The story of Yan centers around a Peking opera actress who transforms into a superhero. Thirty years ago, the Yan family Peking Opera Troupe was brutally massacred, with only 15-year-old Yan Tiehua surviving, only to be later imprisoned and reported dead. Fast forward to the present, and a mysterious figure who looks exactly like the young Yan Tiehua emerges, claiming her identity and seeking justice for the past. This exciting tale of revenge and plot unfolds against the scenes of my beloved city, Taipei, featuring iconic locations such as Taipei 101, Xinyi Area, convenience stores, and the Taipei MRT.

Chang Sheng’s decision to hand-draw Yan after years of digital painting adds a pleasant quality to the artwork. Each page is a labour of love, capturing the complex details of both the traditional and futuristic elements of the story. The hand-drawn illustrations bring an unexpected depth and add to the charm and authenticity of the story.

The vibrant images of daily life in Taipei, combined with the dramatic flair of Peking opera, create a visually stunning experience. Chang Sheng’s realistic character designs and profound humanistic portrayals add layers of emotional resonance, making the characters feel alive and relatable.

In Taiwan, it’s difficult to find opportunities to watch Peking opera. I rarely watch TV, and Peking opera in Taiwan seems to be primarily for the elderly. Frankly, most young people, me included, in Taiwan are not only indifferent to Peking opera, but they are also generally unfamiliar with other traditional operas. Yan brings the readers deep into themes of identity, legacy, and justice. The fusion of Peking opera and superhero symbolizes the merging of old and new, tradition and innovation. This blend highlights the cultural richness of Taiwan while addressing universal themes of resilience and retribution. It actually got me excited about Peking opera after reading Yan.

The storyline also explores the impact of technology on society, as seen in the contrast of traditional opera with futuristic elements. This serves as a commentary on the rapidly changing world and the enduring nature of cultural heritage.

Yan Tiehua, the main character, is a richly developed character whose journey from a tragic past to a powerful present is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Her transformation into a superhero is portrayed with depth that makes her a symbol of strength and perseverance.

As the first born Taiwanese superhero comic, Yan not only showcases Chang Sheng’s artistic skills but also marks a significant milestone in Taiwanese graphic literature. Yan is an achievement that should not be missed. Chang Sheng’s innovative blend of traditional and modern elements, combined with his masterful storytelling and artistry, cements this graphic novel as a must-read. It is a profound and visually stunning journey that promises to leave a lasting impact on the landscape of superhero comics.

Yan

Written by Chang Sheng (常勝)

In Chinese

2020, Dala

ISBN: 9789869949606

In English

Soon be published by Titan Comics

PDF Sample & YouTube Intro

BIBLIOGRAPHY:

Books From Taiwan | Authors. https://booksfromtaiwan.tw/books_info.php?id=380. Accessed 11 June 2024.

‘Taiwan Comic Artist Chang Sheng Featured at 2024 Brussels Book Fair – Focus Taiwan’. Focus Taiwan – CNA English News, 9 Apr. 2024, https://focustaiwan.tw/culture/202404090018.

‘YAN （Vol.1）’. Taiwan Comic City, https://taiwan-comic-city.taicca.tw/book.php?id=19&lang=en. Accessed 11 June 2024.

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Eleanor Duggan is a passionate children’s book reader, a storytelling enchantress, an aspiring globetrotter, a part-time book crafter, and an impassioned foodie who is a cooking disaster. She is more known as an international school teacher-librarian and the International Association of School Librarianship (IASL) Regional Director for East Asia. She is a Taiwanese with a Belgian soul and is currently enjoying her life as a citizen of the world with her daughter and their 2 one-of-a kind cats. You may find her via The Third Culture Librarian 

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