The Collective: A Novel

The Collective: A Novel by Don Lee, published by W. W. Norton & Company on July 16, 2012, is a first edition work comprising 314 pages in English. This novel presents a bildungsroman centered on themes of friendship and betrayal, art and race, as it follows Eric Cho, an aspiring writer, during his time at Macalester College in 1988. There, he meets Jessica Tsai, a budding painter, and Joshua Yoon, a charismatic figure whose influence significantly impacts their lives, especially when they confront an act of racism.

Readers will find a narrative that delves into the complexities of adult relationships as Eric, Jessica, and Joshua reunite in Cambridge, Massachusetts, forming the Asian American Artists Collective. The story navigates their artistic ambitions and personal struggles against the backdrop of societal challenges, culminating in a reflection on the consequences of their choices, particularly following Joshua’s tragic suicide. The Collective thoughtfully examines the aspirations of artists and the sacrifices they make, providing insight into the intersection of identity and creativity.