Gene Luen Yang was born on September 8, 1973 in Alameda, California. He was raised in Fremont, California, where he developed a love for art and storytelling from a young age.
Yang attended the University of Berkeley, where he pursued a double major in computer science and creative writing. This unique combination of disciplines would later influence his work as a cartoonist.
After graduating from university, Yang released his first comic book in 1997. This debut work earned him a Xeric Grant, a prestigious self-publishing grant for comic book creators. This early success marked the beginning of his career as a prominent figure in the world of graphic novels.
In 2016, Yang was appointed as the U.S. Library of Congress Ambassador for Young People's Literature, a testament to his significant contributions to the literary world. He also became the third graphic novelist to receive the prestigious MacArthur Fellowship, highlighting his impact on the medium of comics.
As a cartoonist, Yang is known for his thought-provoking storytelling and intricate illustrations. He has lectured on graphic novels and comic books at various universities and conventions, sharing his passion for the medium with eager audiences.
Gene Luen Yang's work is often compared to legendary artists such as Jack Kirby and Will Eisner, who also made significant contributions to the world of comics. His unique blend of computer science and creative writing backgrounds sets him apart as a trailblazer in the field of graphic storytelling.