Unveiling the Layers of Identity and Memory with MariNaomi | Episode 83

In this episode of the Bookaholic podcast, we are thrilled to welcome MariNaomi, an award-winning queer half-Japanese author and artist, born in Texas and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. MariNaomi's exceptional talent has garnered them recognition as a banned-book author and illustrator, with their work appearing in esteemed publications such as The New Yorker Daily Shouts, The Washington Post, LA Times, and more. MariNaomi's artistic journey has taken them to illustrious institutions like the Smithsonian, the De Young Museum, and the Asian Art Museum, where their captivating artwork has graced the walls. As a true creative force, MariNaomi has contributed to over 80 publications and played a vital role in founding and maintaining databases for Cartoonists of Color, Queer Cartoonists, and Disabled Cartoonists.

During our conversation, MariNaomi shares exciting news about their upcoming tour across the United States, with stops planned in cities like Seattle, Olympia, Iowa, Los Angeles, Berkeley, San Francisco, Texas, and Maryland. This tour presents an opportunity for fans and enthusiasts to experience MariNaomi's captivating storytelling firsthand. We also delve into MariNaomi's thought-provoking podcast, AskBiGrlz, where they collaborate with author Myriam Gurba to offer insightful and empowering advice from a biracial and bisexual feminist perspective.

The highlight of our discussion centers around MariNaomi's forthcoming graphic memoir, "I Thought You Loved Me." This groundbreaking work explores a wide range of themes, including queer culture, feminism, race, class, sex work, and the complexities of memory. Told through a unique blend of prose, collage, and sequential art, MariNaomi's memoir unravels the story of a long-lost best friend, who now resides in the realm of forgotten memories but remains ever-present in their heart.

Renowned for their ability to push the boundaries of the comic medium, MariNaomi's creation of a new idiom in "I Thought You Loved Me" captivates readers with its vivid imagery and emotionally charged storytelling. The memoir has been described as a brilliant, heartbreaking, and dreamlike experience that leaves an indelible impression on its audience.

To learn more about MariNaomi and their incredible body of work, make sure to visit their website at https://marinaomi.com. You'll find additional information about their upcoming tour, their podcast, and the opportunity to explore their advanced reading copy of "I Thought You Loved Me," which is available for early access. #queer #disability #biracial

Join us on the Bookaholic podcast as we embark on a thought-provoking journey through art, identity, and the enigmatic nature of memory with the visionary MariNaomi.