The Promise: The Omnibus (Parts 1-3)

How might the experience of reading The Promise differ for those who have and have not previously watched the animated Avatar series? Do you think the book is aimed toward one audience or the other, and why?

Aang’s role as the Avatar is to preserve the harmony of the world. Consider the meaning of the word “harmony.” How do characters within the story interpret this word differently from one another? How do these differences drive the plot and thematic meaning of the novel?

Analyze the role of humor in The Promise. What does humor contribute to the narrative, in terms of both tone and content?

The four types of bending in the Avatar universe are based on different Chinese martial arts. Does this invocation of martial arts relate to other media or literature with which you are familiar? Consider and explain the significance of these potential cultural references in The Promise.

The Avatar universe borrows concepts from many Asian religions, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, and others. Identify and analyze the meaning and effect of one such religious reference in The Promise, referencing the relevant religious texts, such as The Upanishads or other Vedic scriptures, the Tao Te Ching, the Tripitaka, or one of the many Buddhist Sutras.

The Promise spends much more time focusing on the characters’ romantic relationships than the original animated series did. How might this shift in focus relate to the changing interests of the Avatar franchise’s audience?

Gurihiru and Gene Luen Yang note that the illustrated spread on Pages 190-191 was inspired by 19th-century Japanese battle prints, like these Sino-Japanese War prints catalogued by the University of Oregon. What similarities and differences do you notice between the original prints and Gurihiru’s illustration? Why do you think they chose to reference these specific prints?

Zuko is one of the most iconic anti-heroes in children’s media and literature. What about his design and character arc makes him compelling to wide audiences? Why is the anti-hero archetype rarer in children’s media than clear-cut villains and heroes?