NPR's Book of the Day

Comic journalist Joe Sacco on his portrait of deadly riots in Uttar Pradesh, India

Nov 25, 2025
Comic journalist Joe Sacco shares insights on his new book, The Once And Future Riot, which explores the violent aftermath of a 2013 killing in Uttar Pradesh, India. He discusses how narratives around violence shape actions and political movements. Sacco investigates the challenge of verifying conflicting eyewitness accounts. He reflects on the personal toll of the project and highlights the dangers of communal violence as a warning for democracy. His unique approach in comics journalism emphasizes subjectivity and the importance of connection.
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ANECDOTE

Triggering Killings In Uttar Pradesh

  • In 2013 two Hindu cousins killed a Muslim man in Uttar Pradesh and violence followed.
  • Joe Sacco investigates how that incident escalated into alternating Hindu-Muslim riots.
INSIGHT

Story Shapes Political Violence

  • Stories shape how people label enemies and justify violence.
  • Joe Sacco shows narrative framing builds political movements and distorts responsibility.
INSIGHT

Truth Test And Journalistic Skepticism

  • Many eyewitness claims failed a basic
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