Kinohi Nishikawa

Professor contributing to breakthroughs in African American print culture and publishing history, Kinohi Nishikawa serves as an Associate Professor of English and African American Studies at Princeton University. With a keen interest in the intersections of literature and cultural history, Nishikawa has established himself as a leading scholar in the field. His seminal work, "Street Players: Black Pulp Fiction and the Making of a Literary Underground," explores the vibrant world of Black pulp fiction, shedding light on its impact on the literary landscape. Nishikawa's research delves into the nuances of modern African American literature, with a particular focus on publishing history and print culture. His numerous essays and book chapters have contributed significantly to the understanding of how African American narratives have been shaped and disseminated through various media. His scholarly pursuits are driven by a passion for uncovering the stories behind the stories, examining the cultural and historical contexts that have influenced African American literature. Currently, Nishikawa is immersed in an exciting project titled "Black Paratext," which investigates the history of modern African American literature and book design. This work promises to offer new insights into the visual and material aspects of literary production, further enriching the discourse on African American cultural expression. In addition to his research, Nishikawa is dedicated to education and mentorship. He co-teaches a summer course on Black Bibliography with Jennifer Garcon at the Rare Book School, where he shares his expertise with students eager to explore the rich tapestry of African American literary history. Through his teaching, Nishikawa inspires the next generation of scholars to engage deeply with the complexities of race, literature, and culture. Nishikawa's contributions extend beyond academia, as he actively participates in conferences and workshops, fostering dialogue and collaboration among scholars, writers, and publishers. His work continues to shape the field of African American studies, offering fresh perspectives and challenging conventional narratives. As a thought leader in his discipline, Nishikawa remains committed to advancing the understanding of African American print culture and its enduring legacy.