Shortcomings (2007) Signed First Edition Reference

Shortcomings (Drawn & Quarterly, 2007) is Tomine’s first graphic novel — a precisely drawn, emotionally unflinching story about Ben Tanaka, a cinema-obsessed Japanese American man whose relationship with his politically engaged girlfriend Miko deteriorates as he pursues white women and avoids examining his own racial identity. The book was adapted into a Randall Park-directed film in 2023.

First Edition Identification

Drawn & Quarterly hardcover, 2007. First printing identifiable by copyright page.

Signed Copy Market Values

• Signed first edition hardcover: $30–$75
• Unsigned first edition: $10–$25
• Signed paperback: $15–$30

The 2023 film adaptation brought new attention to the book. Shortcomings is Tomine’s most commercially successful and widely discussed work, making it the primary Tomine collectible for most collectors.