Author Roy Chang Visits Cameron House

Roy Chang is a middle school teacher living in Honolulu, HI. For over a decade, he has been an Editorial Cartoonist for the MidWeek newspaper in Hawaii, as well as a freelance illustrator. Roy’s first book was the children’s book, Cacy and Kiara and the Curse of the Ki`i. His newest project is a comic book titled “Highball and Pepe,” which features a time-traveling duo who encounter Donaldina Cameron and help her fight against the exploitation of Chinese girls and women.

He recently visited Cameron House, during which he led a comic-book making activity with some of the 3rd, 4th, and 5th grader BAP students. He spoke with us afterwards.

Why did you choose San Francisco Chinatown as your setting?

I attended the Academy of Art University from 1986-1990 and love San Francisco. I’ve been revisiting annually since 2006 to play tourist and meet friends. Believe it not, each year I’d walk along Stockton street eating and browsing the markets and never knew Cameron House was right there!

I enjoy the history of Chinatown. When I developed the idea for Highball and Pepe, I found it easier to write about what I was already familiar with. Unlike stories of mad scientists wanting to take over the world, I wanted to give readers a piece of real history and “fighting against evil.”

The first story deals with human trafficking and as I researched, I was thrilled to learn about Donaldina Cameron. Her story has a good message that I wanted to share. When I meet people at Comic Con events, they really like learning that the story features a real person and relevant topic.

What are your hopes in creating this?

I think San Francisco Chinatown gets stereotyped in Hollywood portrayals, so I wanted to be authentic. I used photos and information from the 1880’s, while still creating a world of fantasy with the characters and inventions.  For instance, Dupont Street was the original name before Grant Avenue and the cable car looked different back then, so I wanted to give as accurate a portrayal as possible.

I have other published works, but this is my first time doing a “comic book,” using prose writing (like a book) to go with the art panels.  I did a small print of 85 and it’s sold out, so I have done a second printing!

It’s also a “love letter” to San Francisco and her history. I hope it can get increased exposure so more people will want to learn more about Donaldina Cameron and the work of Cameron House.

Also, in the introduction, I address human trafficking and how to help report suspected cases. I think comics and graphic novels are great opportunities to reach and engage a diverse audience. You can introduce societal issues, life lessons, and historical events in a more interesting way than a traditional text book would.

And, just a note, I’ve included inside gags and details about San Francisco’s Chinatown that locals or Chinatown enthusiasts will recognize and enjoy!

What did you take away from your visit to Cameron House?

I loved the old style history of the building with the wood and narrow stairs. I could feel the love and energy on all the floors keeping it going strong. Three amazing things were the hidden tunnel, the safe, and the upper deck.

The kids were a tough audience to win over; it kind of felt like open mic night. However, Kelcie was a big help. I think in the end, they all did a great job and were eager to show each other their work. One girl was very proud to show me each page and she was a big fan of Pepe. Afterwards, I saw one of the girls leaving with her parent and she waved goodbye, smiling.

I was really impressed with everyone’s unconditional love and generous spirit. I think the whole staff is awesome!  I can see why people come back to work (though many have to live outside the City because of crazy rent!).

How can someone buy a copy of the comic book? 

For buyers outside of Hawaii, they can email me at artguy99@yahoo.com

Copies are $6.00 and I don’t mind paying for postage for now. I also have a black and white print of Highball and Pepe that I add inside the comic book sleeve as a thank you gift.  There’s also colored book marks for $2.00 each. The Facebook page shows the selections.

Also, Roy’s children’s book, Cacy and Kiara and the Curse of the Ki`i is available at www.beachhousepublishing.com