Slanted

How an Asian American Troublemaker Took on the Supreme Court

By: Simon Tam

Narrated by: Simon Tam

When Simon Tam started an Asian American dance rock band called The Slants, he didn't realize that he was starting an entire movement around freedom of expression and discussions on identity.

The band flipped stereotypes with their bombastic live shows and community activism. But when Simon applied to register a trademark on the band's name, the government dragged him all the way to the Supreme Court of the United States.

Slanted is the story of an indomitable spirit who so believes in the idea of justice that he's willing to risk everything along the way for the dignity of self-identity. Simon shares a deeply personal account that will take you from anime conventions to the Supreme Court, all in the name of justice.

The story provides a raw look at our legal system with unflinching honesty and offers timely insights on freedom of speech, how to connect with others we disagree with, and the power of music.

Gripping, funny, enlightening, and ultimately uplifting, Slanted proves that no obstacle is too difficult to conquer - as long as you have a little heart and a lot of rock n' roll. It's an irrepressible story that is fresh, alive, and defines what it means to be American.

©2019 Simon Tam (P)2020 Simon Tam

Amazing and Inspiring Story

This was a great story of a couple of unsung heroes. What I love most about it is that my students got to see and understand how you can affect change and how that change takes time. I love the fact that they incorporated their songs into the audio version.

Great inside look at a fight worth fighting

I am retired from classroom teaching now, but one of my passions has always been the study of Supreme Court cases. If I were still in the classroom, I would play parts of this book to help my students understand how cases arise and dedicated individuals work, their hearts out, seeking justice from our court system.

Loved the book and crazy love this audio version!

If you're a fan of the Slants, a fan of Simon Tam, or just a fan of good ol' fashion justice for all: you'll completely dig this book. It's amazing what can be accomplished through-and-because-of Music. Even up to the steps of the Supreme Court itself: the author remained a musician, band leader, and flat out rockstar. The content of this book is great in any format, but this audio version hits even harder since it is read by the author himself AND you get to hear clips of Slants songs and performances as they're mentioned in the book. Big thumbs up to that.

Tam inspires readers to stand up to racism

This is a great read for all. Simon Tam uses words to paint pictures and carry the reader through his inspiring story while also educating the reader on important historical events. I found myself rooting for him early on and I was sad when the book ended! Tam’s voice is engaging and will leave you wanting to read more. I have the print version but the audio version has some well-placed/well-timed, brilliantly performed extras that you don’t want to miss out on!

A book from the heart!

A wonderful story narrated by the author. Simon's voice is inspiring and engaging. His reading is conversational and easy to follow. I enjoyed this book. Great work!

Inspiring social justice memoir!

Simon Tam writes about his quest for justice, to reclaim and reappropriate language used to denigrate members of the AAPI community, with heartfelt passion. This is a personal story but also a collective one, beautifully told. I read it in one sitting—couldn’t put it down!