Yellowface

About “Yellowface”

Yellowface is a 2023 novel by R.F. Kuang. It follows June Hayward, a writer who steals the unfinished manuscript of her friend Athena Liu, a literary star. After Athena dies in a freak accident, June edits the novel and presents it as her own work. She adopts the name Juniper Song and an ambiguous ethnic photo, leading her to become a bestselling author. June justifies her actions by believing the story deserves to be told, regardless of who tells it. However, as her success grows, so do the threats to her secret. The novel explores themes of diversity, racism, and cultural appropriation. It also examines the impact of social media and the lengths one will go to protect a stolen success.