Panels from the Past: Using the Graphic Novel, The Boy From Clearwater, to Teach about 20th Century Taiwan was a virtual K-12 educator workshop held on October 17, 2024 that explored the historic changes in 20th century Taiwan as seen through the lens of the graphic novel, The Boy from Clearwater. This gripping narrative tells the story of Tsai Kun-lin whose life was swept up in the island’s incredible tumult during this consequential century. Our discussion will center around the pre-workshop reading of select passages from the book that highlight:
- Japan’s colonization of Taiwan at the turn of the 20th century
- The hardship and tragedy of World War II
- The horror, oppression, and authoritarianism of the “White Terror”
- The democratization period and economic prosperity that followed
Featured speakers included, Dr. David Kenley, Professor of History at Dakota State University, and Catherine Fratto, Asian Studies Center Engagement Coordinator at the University of Pittsburgh, who provided historical context for graphic novel and offered strategies and resources for incorporating it in the classroom. Click Here to Access the Workshop Resources
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