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From Rufio to Zuko
From Rufio to Zuko is a personal examination of the upbringing, culture, and work of Dante Basco. Basco ruminates on the formative power of his Filipino-American heritage, his family, the dynamics that evolved throughout his career, and his experiences behind playing a couple of America's most popular characters.
From Rufio to Zuko is a memoir detailing the life and work of Dante Basco. Basco takes us behind the scenes of his earliest projects, sharing personal examinations of his life on the set of Hook , through his second rise as a cultural icon as Zuko in The Last Airbender . Throughout his career as a 'working class' actor of Filipino heritage, Basco shares how his family and culture play a crucial role in the foundation of his work and his focus for the future.
From Rufio to Zuko is a memoir detailing the life and work of Dante Basco. Basco takes us behind the scenes of his earliest projects, sharing personal examinations of his life on the set of Hook , through his second rise as a cultural icon as Zuko in The Last Airbender . Throughout his career as a 'working class' actor of Filipino heritage, Basco shares how his family and culture play a crucial role in the foundation of his work and his focus for the future.
118 pages, Paperback
First published November 4, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
November 17, 2019
Like many people, regardless of whether or not they are Filipino American, I grew up watching Dante Basco. While the first thing I ever saw him in was technically as Rufio in "Hook," I'm part of the generation that knows him best for offering his voice as Prince Zuko in "Avatar: The Last Airbender." I've seen and heard him in so many other projects that are mentioned in his memoir like "The Debut" and "American Dragon: Jake Long" and I've had the pleasure of meeting him a few times as well. But never would I have imagined the number of life experiences he has been through so far as described in "From Rufio to Zuko."
This memoir is a short read and I think that's okay. I see it as a sign that he is far from being done just yet. But that doesn't cease the fact that he has learned a lot from his time in the industry over the past three and a half decades, and it's very heartfelt to see him really get down to the nuts and bolts of how to proceed in life, regardless of whether or not it's a life in the arts, and willingly offer advice for the younger generation. There are memories that he shares that I've heard him talk about before and then there are memories that one can tell took a lot of emotional endurance to write about. I appreciate the raw honesty presented in "From Rufio to Zuko" and I believe people will really benefit from reading all of that.
This memoir is a short read and I think that's okay. I see it as a sign that he is far from being done just yet. But that doesn't cease the fact that he has learned a lot from his time in the industry over the past three and a half decades, and it's very heartfelt to see him really get down to the nuts and bolts of how to proceed in life, regardless of whether or not it's a life in the arts, and willingly offer advice for the younger generation. There are memories that he shares that I've heard him talk about before and then there are memories that one can tell took a lot of emotional endurance to write about. I appreciate the raw honesty presented in "From Rufio to Zuko" and I believe people will really benefit from reading all of that.
January 13, 2020
I never say this about any book, but I wish this one was longer.
This book is a short memoir of your cult favorite. I grew up seeing him in Hook and he was truly the first person in a movie that I ever recognized as Filipino, like me. And now my kids know him from Avatar. It's an easy, comforting read and you'll finish it in one day.
Most of the book is a lovefest for his family, for the legendary actors he's worked with, and his mentors, which was honestly refreshing. He hints at a lot of meaty stuff throughout the book -- an abusive acting coach, a stint in Scientology, his sister wanting to break free from the family for a little while, the end of a long term relationship -- and I wish he'd gone deeper into those things, but it was obvious that these were very personal and this wasn't meant to be a juicy tell-all. And I really loved that about this memoir; he's self aware and socially aware, and he is really mindful of his impact in Hollywood and in the Asian American community.
This book is a short memoir of your cult favorite. I grew up seeing him in Hook and he was truly the first person in a movie that I ever recognized as Filipino, like me. And now my kids know him from Avatar. It's an easy, comforting read and you'll finish it in one day.
Most of the book is a lovefest for his family, for the legendary actors he's worked with, and his mentors, which was honestly refreshing. He hints at a lot of meaty stuff throughout the book -- an abusive acting coach, a stint in Scientology, his sister wanting to break free from the family for a little while, the end of a long term relationship -- and I wish he'd gone deeper into those things, but it was obvious that these were very personal and this wasn't meant to be a juicy tell-all. And I really loved that about this memoir; he's self aware and socially aware, and he is really mindful of his impact in Hollywood and in the Asian American community.
March 22, 2020
Loved Dante Basco since the Rufio days (don't we all?!) and still do!
Notable lines:
"We should fill the sky with our own stars."
"We can only control ourselves. When it goes poorly, find your path through . . . you can find yourself in a hole as I have, and the only way out of it is to out-produce the negativity by creating. Create for yourself . . . you'll find clarity . . ."
Notable lines:
"We should fill the sky with our own stars."
"We can only control ourselves. When it goes poorly, find your path through . . . you can find yourself in a hole as I have, and the only way out of it is to out-produce the negativity by creating. Create for yourself . . . you'll find clarity . . ."
November 18, 2019
This was an honest and intriguing look into Dante Basco's career growing up in the Hollywood business, from his rise to cult fame status as Rufio in Hook to his beloved voice acting role as Zuko and what he is currently working on to further Asian representation in movies and tv.
It's fascinating reading about his experience as a child actor and all the big names he worked with, like Robin Williams, Mark Hamill, Jason Isaacs, Antonio Banderas, and John M. Chu (director of Crazy Rich Asians). Also I did not know he produced a movie with Ryan Higa! I specifically like the allusions he made to having (ironically) Peter Pan Syndrome.
He gives insight on his family, the support they gave and the impact they had on each other's careers as all his siblings were also involved in the entertainment industry. They were the first Filipino American family in Hollywood. He delves into how being a Filipino American affected the roles he received.
The last chapter gives good advice for performing but also just life in general. Throughout the book, his distinct voice as a writer and poet shines through clearly. I hope he continued to write because there are topics he touched on that left me wanting more info. Both clearly personal topics that I realize he is not obligated to expand on:
I always find it hard to be too critical on memoirs because they're so personal. That said, there are a handful of typos in this first print run and some parts seem a little meandering/stream of consciousness but I don't think it's fair to hold that against him when he's otherwise laying out his heart on the table and actually has interesting stuff to say.
Dante Basco has been a presence in my life for over a decade. Zuko is one of my favorite fictional characters of all time. Finding out he was Filipino when I was in middle school blew my mind. It was the first time I could identify someone like me who actually made it big in the media. And I told him that when my brother and I met him during one of his signings in NY this month. He was very kind and patient and it was so surreal just having a chill conversation with one of my childhood heroes.
After reading this, I feel even more seen. Apart from being raised in FilAm families, we have VASTLY different lives and passions but still share the same anxieties and hopes for the future. All in all, this was a dope read.
It's fascinating reading about his experience as a child actor and all the big names he worked with, like Robin Williams, Mark Hamill, Jason Isaacs, Antonio Banderas, and John M. Chu (director of Crazy Rich Asians). Also I did not know he produced a movie with Ryan Higa! I specifically like the allusions he made to having (ironically) Peter Pan Syndrome.
He gives insight on his family, the support they gave and the impact they had on each other's careers as all his siblings were also involved in the entertainment industry. They were the first Filipino American family in Hollywood. He delves into how being a Filipino American affected the roles he received.
The last chapter gives good advice for performing but also just life in general. Throughout the book, his distinct voice as a writer and poet shines through clearly. I hope he continued to write because there are topics he touched on that left me wanting more info. Both clearly personal topics that I realize he is not obligated to expand on:
I always find it hard to be too critical on memoirs because they're so personal. That said, there are a handful of typos in this first print run and some parts seem a little meandering/stream of consciousness but I don't think it's fair to hold that against him when he's otherwise laying out his heart on the table and actually has interesting stuff to say.
Dante Basco has been a presence in my life for over a decade. Zuko is one of my favorite fictional characters of all time. Finding out he was Filipino when I was in middle school blew my mind. It was the first time I could identify someone like me who actually made it big in the media. And I told him that when my brother and I met him during one of his signings in NY this month. He was very kind and patient and it was so surreal just having a chill conversation with one of my childhood heroes.
After reading this, I feel even more seen. Apart from being raised in FilAm families, we have VASTLY different lives and passions but still share the same anxieties and hopes for the future. All in all, this was a dope read.
February 20, 2020
My Fil-Am King! I was 10 when the movie “Hook” came out, but I still remember how enamored I was when Rufio (Rufio, Ru-fi-oooooooo) made his bold entrance onto the screen. He was so badass, he was so swoon-inducing, he was so ...Filipino! -like me! Whenever a Filipino face graced the movie screen, which didn’t happen often, I took notice. And it was Dante Basco and Ernie Reyes Jr. who became childhood heroes that I adhered to- and still make me swell with fangirlism and pride to this day. —How beside myself with joy was I when I read in this book that Dante and Ernie are friends???
This memoir is such a quick and casual read. But, it is a huge insight into what the Hollywood experience was and is like for someone making first steps for the Asian American community (and specifically the Filipino-American community) in the world of entertainment. In addition to being a cult favorite and taking part in more films and iconic roles than I was aware of, Dante is also consciously making strides toward assisting others in the Asian American community to have a stronger presence and voice in film and the arts.
This book was surprisingly encouraging, inspiring, and hopeful in addition to being an honest and somewhat vulnerable telling of Dante’s personal story.
I just wish it was longer (and had less typos)!
Dante hints at another book in the future. So, one can hope for more content to come.
Bangarang!
This memoir is such a quick and casual read. But, it is a huge insight into what the Hollywood experience was and is like for someone making first steps for the Asian American community (and specifically the Filipino-American community) in the world of entertainment. In addition to being a cult favorite and taking part in more films and iconic roles than I was aware of, Dante is also consciously making strides toward assisting others in the Asian American community to have a stronger presence and voice in film and the arts.
This book was surprisingly encouraging, inspiring, and hopeful in addition to being an honest and somewhat vulnerable telling of Dante’s personal story.
I just wish it was longer (and had less typos)!
Dante hints at another book in the future. So, one can hope for more content to come.
Bangarang!
August 15, 2020
I have a lot of respect for Dante Basco and his work. He's an excellent public speaker, too. But this book fell flat for me because I had expected more of an autobiography and got more of a personal philosophy with vague anecdotes. The book is written in a stream of consciousness style that speaks to Basco's talents as a poet, but doesn't create a story so much as a mood.
May 21, 2020
4.5 stars, rounded up. Rufio and Zuko are really the only roles I've seen Dante Basco in, but I'd like to look up some of his other projects. This book felt extremely genuine and was like sitting down and chatting over coffee. Very enjoyable, and he has lots of interesting stories to tell. It also feels like just the right length; he says what he wanted to say but the book is not padded with excess just to make it longer.
January 18, 2020
*3.5 stars*
“Don’t let anyone ever tell you that it’s just luck. There will always be variables, a set of systems outside of your control. Occasionally, these variables will seem stacked against you. But you, with a good head on your shoulders and a work ethic to match... you will always be the constant. If you believe enough, there is nothing that can stand in your way forever. That’s the luck.”
“Don’t let anyone ever tell you that it’s just luck. There will always be variables, a set of systems outside of your control. Occasionally, these variables will seem stacked against you. But you, with a good head on your shoulders and a work ethic to match... you will always be the constant. If you believe enough, there is nothing that can stand in your way forever. That’s the luck.”
June 24, 2024
Dante Basco was often prevalent in my childhood in some of the most impactful pieces of media in my life. I was really excited to read what he had to say in this book and enjoyed reading his perspective.
As someone who has had the chance to meet him a few times, I can say he writes just like he is having a conversation with you. The book is short but goes into Dante's experience growing up in Hollywood as an Asian American actor/voiceactor. He's very honest and open, and he tells stories and talks about people who inspired him along the way.
I wish he would've been a little less vague and gone into more detail about most of his experiences. He also does get repetitive throughout the book, almost like he's writing in a stream of consciousness manner. That being said, he mentions many things that brought him to where he is today and how that led him to want to make a mark on the world and future generations.
I already had an appreciation for Dante Basco's performances of his roles and the interactions I've had with him personally, but this just made me more excited for what he will do next. If you are already a fan, or even if you aren't, I'd check this out if you want a small glimpse of growing up in Hollywood and how you can impact the world with your art.
Overall rating: 🌕🌕🌕
Art appreciation rating: 🎨🎨🎨🎨🎨
Positivity rating: 📈📈📈📈
As someone who has had the chance to meet him a few times, I can say he writes just like he is having a conversation with you. The book is short but goes into Dante's experience growing up in Hollywood as an Asian American actor/voiceactor. He's very honest and open, and he tells stories and talks about people who inspired him along the way.
I wish he would've been a little less vague and gone into more detail about most of his experiences. He also does get repetitive throughout the book, almost like he's writing in a stream of consciousness manner. That being said, he mentions many things that brought him to where he is today and how that led him to want to make a mark on the world and future generations.
I already had an appreciation for Dante Basco's performances of his roles and the interactions I've had with him personally, but this just made me more excited for what he will do next. If you are already a fan, or even if you aren't, I'd check this out if you want a small glimpse of growing up in Hollywood and how you can impact the world with your art.
Overall rating: 🌕🌕🌕
Art appreciation rating: 🎨🎨🎨🎨🎨
Positivity rating: 📈📈📈📈
May 28, 2021
These book is one of my favorites, it change completly my life and the way I think about Hollywood. The poetry is perfect. I read this book because I'm fan of Avatar but if you are not fan of the work of Dante Basco or you never hear about him you could read it and enjoy it as if you're a fan of Dante Basco
February 28, 2023
Inspiring thoughts and advice to blooming artists of all walks from a hero of Asian American cinema who recounts the lessons he's learned from playing our favorite characters and telling his stories during a lifetime career in Hollywood
April 2, 2020
I arrived here thanks to Zuko. Not that I'm not a fan of the movie Hook- I adore basically every Robin Williams movie. But Avatar? I LOVE Avatar. I will forever be bitter over the fact somehow people think Aang is the lead character there when he experiences basically no character growth from beginning to end. Zuko, though? That is the kind of redemption arc literary dreams are made of.
So, huge Zuko fan here. And Dante Basco is someone I casually will follow on social media and he always seemed to be funny and chill and very much a normal person. Which is why when he calls himself a "blue collar actor" I see exactly what he means.
This book feels a bit like a letter. I feel like Dante Basco is writing a letter to me, trying to provide me a little advice and mentorship. He lets you watch as he pokes and prods different aspects of his past and psyche while he constantly shifts things to examine them from another angle. He talks about working with great actors and creators- the ones whose names you know and the ones who you don't. He talks about the odd dichotomy of growing up a child actor while living in gang areas and going to public schools. There's a lot about race, and equality, and life, and a bevy of other heavy topics that he explores or touches on here. And I think he did so well- he expresses himself fluently and respectfully, while allowing all the various points of view room to breathe. He speaks sensibly and calmly.
Will I read another book if he chooses to write one?
I don't know. Maybe. Depends on what it's about. Like I said, I arrived here because of Zuko. I stayed and read to the end because of Dante.
So, huge Zuko fan here. And Dante Basco is someone I casually will follow on social media and he always seemed to be funny and chill and very much a normal person. Which is why when he calls himself a "blue collar actor" I see exactly what he means.
This book feels a bit like a letter. I feel like Dante Basco is writing a letter to me, trying to provide me a little advice and mentorship. He lets you watch as he pokes and prods different aspects of his past and psyche while he constantly shifts things to examine them from another angle. He talks about working with great actors and creators- the ones whose names you know and the ones who you don't. He talks about the odd dichotomy of growing up a child actor while living in gang areas and going to public schools. There's a lot about race, and equality, and life, and a bevy of other heavy topics that he explores or touches on here. And I think he did so well- he expresses himself fluently and respectfully, while allowing all the various points of view room to breathe. He speaks sensibly and calmly.
Will I read another book if he chooses to write one?
I don't know. Maybe. Depends on what it's about. Like I said, I arrived here because of Zuko. I stayed and read to the end because of Dante.
April 2, 2021
What can I say about this book?
I got to meet Dante Basco in NYC upon the release of the book. I went with my Best Friend who is now my Boyfriend, I have so many wonderful memories associated with this book.
But we get insight of how Dante got into acting. Also how his roles has formed his life.
I got to meet Dante Basco in NYC upon the release of the book. I went with my Best Friend who is now my Boyfriend, I have so many wonderful memories associated with this book.
But we get insight of how Dante got into acting. Also how his roles has formed his life.
January 2, 2020
*****3.5*****
Very quick read full of fun little anecdotes, rambled musings, and reflections on life. Some typos and grammatical errors that honestly did detract a little from the reading, but overall a solid read.
Very quick read full of fun little anecdotes, rambled musings, and reflections on life. Some typos and grammatical errors that honestly did detract a little from the reading, but overall a solid read.
January 20, 2020
This book was amazing, Dante's story of how he became a child actor and also early in life
he and his brothers were a famous break dance group, and so much more instilled in their lives
from a young age that made them what he is today.
Got to read this book.
Elena Carpenter
he and his brothers were a famous break dance group, and so much more instilled in their lives
from a young age that made them what he is today.
Got to read this book.
Elena Carpenter
March 24, 2021
I loved this book. I even went to the book signing in NYC to meet Dante Basco. It was amazing.
December 3, 2020
Your ship remains afloat. Whether you're riding the seven seas or sailing down a small river, you're still on the journey. And in the process of staying afloat, you travel to so many new places.
Dante Basco is most famously known for Rufio, from Hook, Disney's American Dragon: Jake Long, and Nickelodeons Avatar: The Last Airbender, voicing Prince Zuko.
I think most people know that. But theres alot more to know about the Fillipino-American actor. In just a little over 100 pages we sit down and have, what I feel, is a very deep conversation with Mr. Basco. He is so raw and real as he reveals his 40 years of life and his abridged experiences of it. I dont read biographies alot, but I enjoyed this more free-thought way Basco took.
When you see someone make it big, and you know in your heart of hearts that your skill eclipses theirs. Use that to further your dedication, but never become resentful. Negativity will never help you get to where you're going, but that doesnt mean a little spark of revenge won't light a fire.
Like I said above, Basco writes in a very raw and free-thought format. This does lead to some clunky sentences, typos and an over-all unstructured set up to his thoughts and anecdotes. To me, I didnt mind this, but it is why I would say a 4 star rather than a 5.
But lets get to the meat of this book. I really appreciated Basco's stories of his experiences. It was so interesting to see how his time in Hollywood shaped him. You feel the discomfort he felt as he took roles of colored or queer folks. This was something that hit me the strongest. He's Fillipino, but he always played Native American, Hispanic, or any other Asian role. He took all of this with such grace, and you can really see how it shaped him to grow and represent Asian American people. Striving to make a place for the community, and encouraging them to do the same.
As much as I wouldn't want to be like every other person he runs into, I can't say I wouldnt run to him and bro hug him, asking for him to say a Zuko line he has repeated hundreds of time. He's iconic, he knows it, but through this book you can see he has so many layers. He really seems like an awesome person, and I respect him alot and glad I found his words. He was one of the main reason's seeing a colored actor on screen was no big deal to me. (Im referring to Rufio, one of the earliest movies I can remember growing up) Its crazy that the role of Rufio meant so much to the Asian American community, and as a white kid it just made it seem like its normal. As it should be.
I could quote his whole last chapter, because he really speaks from his heart. I hope I can meet him one day, and I wish him all the best. I honestly recommend this to any Asian-American and definitely any fan of Dante Basco. You love him and his characters, now read about him as a person.
Every artist I admire carries their damage, and uses it. That never ceases to impress me. Not that they need to hurt to make a good thing, but that they can process it. Make it count.Make it inspire others. Shape it into a completely different beast.
Dante Basco is most famously known for Rufio, from Hook, Disney's American Dragon: Jake Long, and Nickelodeons Avatar: The Last Airbender, voicing Prince Zuko.
I think most people know that. But theres alot more to know about the Fillipino-American actor. In just a little over 100 pages we sit down and have, what I feel, is a very deep conversation with Mr. Basco. He is so raw and real as he reveals his 40 years of life and his abridged experiences of it. I dont read biographies alot, but I enjoyed this more free-thought way Basco took.
When you see someone make it big, and you know in your heart of hearts that your skill eclipses theirs. Use that to further your dedication, but never become resentful. Negativity will never help you get to where you're going, but that doesnt mean a little spark of revenge won't light a fire.
Like I said above, Basco writes in a very raw and free-thought format. This does lead to some clunky sentences, typos and an over-all unstructured set up to his thoughts and anecdotes. To me, I didnt mind this, but it is why I would say a 4 star rather than a 5.
But lets get to the meat of this book. I really appreciated Basco's stories of his experiences. It was so interesting to see how his time in Hollywood shaped him. You feel the discomfort he felt as he took roles of colored or queer folks. This was something that hit me the strongest. He's Fillipino, but he always played Native American, Hispanic, or any other Asian role. He took all of this with such grace, and you can really see how it shaped him to grow and represent Asian American people. Striving to make a place for the community, and encouraging them to do the same.
As much as I wouldn't want to be like every other person he runs into, I can't say I wouldnt run to him and bro hug him, asking for him to say a Zuko line he has repeated hundreds of time. He's iconic, he knows it, but through this book you can see he has so many layers. He really seems like an awesome person, and I respect him alot and glad I found his words. He was one of the main reason's seeing a colored actor on screen was no big deal to me. (Im referring to Rufio, one of the earliest movies I can remember growing up) Its crazy that the role of Rufio meant so much to the Asian American community, and as a white kid it just made it seem like its normal. As it should be.
I could quote his whole last chapter, because he really speaks from his heart. I hope I can meet him one day, and I wish him all the best. I honestly recommend this to any Asian-American and definitely any fan of Dante Basco. You love him and his characters, now read about him as a person.
Every artist I admire carries their damage, and uses it. That never ceases to impress me. Not that they need to hurt to make a good thing, but that they can process it. Make it count.Make it inspire others. Shape it into a completely different beast.
February 9, 2026
A slim volume from a small publisher, this feels less like a memoir and more like a series of journal entries, or the first draft of a lengthy speech: structurally unclear, with occasional typos, and often disappointingly superficial. Every once in a while Basco is able to plunge us into a scene, but most of the time he skims above the surface. He knows that Hook and Avatar are the two most beloved projects he’s worked on, and writes with some insight about the aftermath of each one, but there’s not much behind-the-scenes detail about the production process, nor much discussion of his characters Rufio and Zuko. We’re told that Dead Poets Society was a hugely formative movie for young Dante, so of course it was a big deal to co-star with Robin Williams — but you can’t quote a single thing he said to you? Or how you felt when you first met him? Same for Mako — I craved more details on their relationship. He confesses that he didn’t pay much attention to attention to Avatar while it was in production — for three seasons? And there are very few anecdotes or details from any of his other acting work, either. Some intense drama with family members and former managers/agents is alluded to, but always in politely vague terms. He describes the tight-knit family structure but not how that dynamic changed when he landed a huge movie role at age 15, or how they repaired their relationships. The abusive “cult” of the acting coach who controlled his family for 20 years is described in the strongest language, but still with very little clarity or detail.
That being said, Basco’s clearly more interested in reflecting on what his career might mean and controlling what he can — cultivating a community for poetry in Los Angeles and strengthening opportunities for Filipino-Americans and other Asian actors in showbiz. His passion for these issues comes through easily and is persuasive. I also enjoyed the section on But I’m a Cheerleader, which likewise included some reflections on representation and identity. I just wish there was more of a vivid foundation for those to be built on.
That being said, Basco’s clearly more interested in reflecting on what his career might mean and controlling what he can — cultivating a community for poetry in Los Angeles and strengthening opportunities for Filipino-Americans and other Asian actors in showbiz. His passion for these issues comes through easily and is persuasive. I also enjoyed the section on But I’m a Cheerleader, which likewise included some reflections on representation and identity. I just wish there was more of a vivid foundation for those to be built on.
November 7, 2021
I recently finished watching all three seasons of Avatar: The Last Airbender. My favorite (of course) was Uncle Iroh, the tea master, but Zuko came in a close second. And color me surprised when I discovered that the voice actor that lent Zuko his signature angsty rasp was none other than Dante Basco, the same Dante Basco who played Rufio in Steven Spielberg's Hook.
I don't know too much about the entertainment industry, but I do know how rare it is for Asian American actors and stories to make it on-screen—and how it has been slowly (but surely) changing with box-office hits like Shang-Chi, Crazy Rich Asians, and Minari. Basco's autobiography FROM RUFIO TO ZUKO was illuminating. Considered a legend in Asian American entertainment and a pioneer in the industry, Basco struggled against casting's white default, only achieving his success with immense talent, his family's support, and a million-in-one chance. Yet, as he reveals, success wasn't necessarily all golden. Landing a role meant another person of color didn't land that role (including his own brothers). Being a child actor meant he never got the quintessential "childhood" experience. Working with big names meant that he was exposed to the cutthroat nature of entertainment early on.
Despite the challenges, it is evident that he loves his work because of his love of art as he recollects moments of mentorship or creation. This book is a clear celebration of his achievements, the voice behind the voices and characters. Basco is, first and foremost, before Rufio or Zuko, an artist.
Full review: https://www.instagram.com/p/CV_DG2bP7Ac/
I don't know too much about the entertainment industry, but I do know how rare it is for Asian American actors and stories to make it on-screen—and how it has been slowly (but surely) changing with box-office hits like Shang-Chi, Crazy Rich Asians, and Minari. Basco's autobiography FROM RUFIO TO ZUKO was illuminating. Considered a legend in Asian American entertainment and a pioneer in the industry, Basco struggled against casting's white default, only achieving his success with immense talent, his family's support, and a million-in-one chance. Yet, as he reveals, success wasn't necessarily all golden. Landing a role meant another person of color didn't land that role (including his own brothers). Being a child actor meant he never got the quintessential "childhood" experience. Working with big names meant that he was exposed to the cutthroat nature of entertainment early on.
Despite the challenges, it is evident that he loves his work because of his love of art as he recollects moments of mentorship or creation. This book is a clear celebration of his achievements, the voice behind the voices and characters. Basco is, first and foremost, before Rufio or Zuko, an artist.
Full review: https://www.instagram.com/p/CV_DG2bP7Ac/
April 15, 2026
I am one of the probable millions of fans who grew up watching Dante in film, shows, and more. My first introduction was Hook, and my most notable favorite role of his is Zuko. So I was drawn to the title of this book right away. I like that he took a more casual approach with the book. It felt like somewhere in between a letter to a friend and a personal journal. I only realized he went into voice acting more recently, so going back and realizing it was his voice as Zuko and many others was so cool to find out so many childhood memories were connected. We are taken through his journey as he makes his break in Hollywood alongside his brothers. He mentions the good and the bad in more brief descriptions. To me, it is clear that at this time, he was more in the beginning stages of learning how to flesh out his past to determine the roots of certain psychological impacts on his mental health. So we are still getting more surface-level explanations of particular traumas; he is just not ready to discuss them in detail yet. Which is perfectly fine; he is telling his story the best he feels comfortable telling it at this point. We learn more about the lessons he has learned along the way and the friends or mentors he has made. I personally got emotional at his mention of Mako Iwamatsu. It was nice to hear he found him to be an Uncle to him, on- and off-screen. Mako voiced Uncle Iroh on Avatar: The Last Airbender, and a very influential character to many. It was beautiful to learn that the man behind the voice was the true embodiment of that character, a guiding light and mentor. This was a quick read, and I appreciated the introduction to Dante Basco's story.
March 14, 2023
Dante Basco’s voice has filled up so much of my childhood. I remember watching Firebreather on cartoon network, hearing that distinct rasp in Kenny’s voice and realizing, “Holy cow, it’s Zuko!” (Firebreather, prince of the Fire Nation, American Dragon Jake Long… anyone notice a theme here? 🔥)
As an adult, I found out Dante was Filipino like me, and he’s been christened with the title of Rachel’s Favorite Voice Actor ever since. Plus, he’s just a funny, easy-going person.
I laughed out loud when I read that Dante experienced the same conversation I’ve been having my whole life:
“What ARE you?”
“I’m Filipino.”
“What’s that?”
Dante touches on much of the discrimination that makes “making it” in Hollywood so impossible for Asian Americans - and yet, he doesn’t wallow. It’s just part of the industry; something he’s doing what he can to change. This is not a pity party for the cards he’s been dealt, or even an attack on society. It’s a call to work your hardest, put all your love into your art, and make an impact where you can. To me, that’s what makes a true American.
This book had just enough vulnerability and stories from Dante’s career that I feel like I got to see him as a real person. You get to see his flaws AND the things that make him great. But I also appreciated that he didn’t spend too much time on any one experience and emotion. It’s short, it’s sweet, it’s funny, it’s charming. And even though it’s his memoir, he tries not to make it about himself. Read it, and you’ll know what I mean.
As an adult, I found out Dante was Filipino like me, and he’s been christened with the title of Rachel’s Favorite Voice Actor ever since. Plus, he’s just a funny, easy-going person.
I laughed out loud when I read that Dante experienced the same conversation I’ve been having my whole life:
“What ARE you?”
“I’m Filipino.”
“What’s that?”
Dante touches on much of the discrimination that makes “making it” in Hollywood so impossible for Asian Americans - and yet, he doesn’t wallow. It’s just part of the industry; something he’s doing what he can to change. This is not a pity party for the cards he’s been dealt, or even an attack on society. It’s a call to work your hardest, put all your love into your art, and make an impact where you can. To me, that’s what makes a true American.
This book had just enough vulnerability and stories from Dante’s career that I feel like I got to see him as a real person. You get to see his flaws AND the things that make him great. But I also appreciated that he didn’t spend too much time on any one experience and emotion. It’s short, it’s sweet, it’s funny, it’s charming. And even though it’s his memoir, he tries not to make it about himself. Read it, and you’ll know what I mean.
February 17, 2026
I love Avatar so I was fairly excited to pick this up, although I was surprised at how short it was. Dante manages to keep the length down by going into little detail about his stories. There is very rarely any he said, she said dialogue exchange which I might have preferred. There are several times when Dante says that people in Hollywood don't have your best interests at heart, but doesn't give any specifics on what he means by this or what behaviours to watch out for.
The lack of detail is a little frustrating but that is also the way that you remember most stories about your life, the broad strokes and the lessons learned. The conversational writing style works quite well to convey that Dante is just some guy.
There were also a couple of times where he described some things that I'd never thought about before. Like how to a casting director, your partial ethnicity fulfils the requirements of the whole of that ethnicity. Or that when directors are deciding on actors to work with, they don't just make a decision on acting ability, but on how well they get along because they're going to be working together for weeks and months. I'm describing times that I put the book down for a second because I was experiencing a new thought.
Otherwise i found it a little underwhelming, but perfectly pleasant.
The lack of detail is a little frustrating but that is also the way that you remember most stories about your life, the broad strokes and the lessons learned. The conversational writing style works quite well to convey that Dante is just some guy.
There were also a couple of times where he described some things that I'd never thought about before. Like how to a casting director, your partial ethnicity fulfils the requirements of the whole of that ethnicity. Or that when directors are deciding on actors to work with, they don't just make a decision on acting ability, but on how well they get along because they're going to be working together for weeks and months. I'm describing times that I put the book down for a second because I was experiencing a new thought.
Otherwise i found it a little underwhelming, but perfectly pleasant.
July 16, 2024
Dante Basco's memoir may be short, but it feels like the start of something bigger. In its pages, Basco distills heartfelt insights from his 35 years in the industry. His advice isn't just for aspiring artists; it's for anyone facing life's challenges. The book's raw honesty is evident, especially in the stories that took great emotional strength to share. "From Rufio to Zuko" offers wisdom that can benefit readers from all walks of life.
I've loved Dante Basco since his Rufio days (definitely my first-ever crush let alone a celebrity crush), and this memoir has only increased my admiration. He provides a touching look into his family's support and the unique dynamic of being the first Filipino American family in Hollywood. Basco explores how his heritage influenced the roles he received and the challenges he faced. Reading this memoir felt like chatting with an old friend over coffee, filled with engaging stories and thoughtful reflections. It's a genuinely enjoyable read and just the right length.
I've loved Dante Basco since his Rufio days (definitely my first-ever crush let alone a celebrity crush), and this memoir has only increased my admiration. He provides a touching look into his family's support and the unique dynamic of being the first Filipino American family in Hollywood. Basco explores how his heritage influenced the roles he received and the challenges he faced. Reading this memoir felt like chatting with an old friend over coffee, filled with engaging stories and thoughtful reflections. It's a genuinely enjoyable read and just the right length.
January 6, 2024
Wow, so..rating biographies is hard for me. This is someone's personal story, not a work of fiction, I don't read a lot of them, and I think I may have rated one, and it was an audio.
I think I am giving this 5 stars. I can't say I know every aspect of Dante Basco's career, I do know his more famous roles, Rufio in Hook, and Prince Zuko from Avatar the Last Air Bender. I enjoyed the heck out of Take the Lead, and I have seen episodes of American Dragon Jake Long here and there and thought it was a fun show. This book was really good, giving more insight on his career, how he has stayed successful. I enjoyed finding out that his family was in this together, and he's a poet, and learning about his other projects to really get more roles going for Asian American Actors, and directors and writers.
There were so many interesting stories in 118 pages book, and I am sure he could tell more.
I think I am giving this 5 stars. I can't say I know every aspect of Dante Basco's career, I do know his more famous roles, Rufio in Hook, and Prince Zuko from Avatar the Last Air Bender. I enjoyed the heck out of Take the Lead, and I have seen episodes of American Dragon Jake Long here and there and thought it was a fun show. This book was really good, giving more insight on his career, how he has stayed successful. I enjoyed finding out that his family was in this together, and he's a poet, and learning about his other projects to really get more roles going for Asian American Actors, and directors and writers.
There were so many interesting stories in 118 pages book, and I am sure he could tell more.
May 9, 2022
Dante Basco reflects on his career in From Rufio to Zuko. In this short autobiography, he reflects on his childhood, his break-out role of Rufio as well as on Prince Zuko. And also some poems, because Basco is also a poet.
I am most familiar with Basco as the voice of Prince Zuko in Avatar: The Last Airbender (hence why I had to have the Fire Nation edition), but I learnt a lot about him in this book. About his struggles as an Asian actor and how he happened to get these roles that pass the test of time. If anything, this book made me excited to watch Dante Basco's other works I'm not familiar with.
I would recommend From Rufio to Zuko to anyone who loves Basco's work and/or wants to learn more about Hollywood from an Asian, and more specifically a Filipino-American, perspective.
I am most familiar with Basco as the voice of Prince Zuko in Avatar: The Last Airbender (hence why I had to have the Fire Nation edition), but I learnt a lot about him in this book. About his struggles as an Asian actor and how he happened to get these roles that pass the test of time. If anything, this book made me excited to watch Dante Basco's other works I'm not familiar with.
I would recommend From Rufio to Zuko to anyone who loves Basco's work and/or wants to learn more about Hollywood from an Asian, and more specifically a Filipino-American, perspective.
July 13, 2020
This was exactly the kind of autobiography I like best. Lots of stories showing lots of perspective I've never seen before. It was also very touching to read about Dante Basco's experiences with so many big star names as well as his hopes to help improve the world of his career for those with backgrounds like his.
The emotion of this book felt so raw and true. I loved reading Dante's poems and getting to see that part of his perspective. I'm glad I picked this book up even though I originally was only interested because I loved his roles as Zuko in Avatar the Last Airbender, it was enlightening to see how much more to him there was than that.
The emotion of this book felt so raw and true. I loved reading Dante's poems and getting to see that part of his perspective. I'm glad I picked this book up even though I originally was only interested because I loved his roles as Zuko in Avatar the Last Airbender, it was enlightening to see how much more to him there was than that.
February 28, 2021
I absolutely love Dante Basco and all of his work espically his work on Hook and Avatar I love that he is still working espically directing his own movies and shows with Asian American actors that needs to be more pronounced in Hollywood and I hope that he gets the renowned that he deserves he is very talented and I really do wish him luck in everything that he does the book was really a wonderful insight into his life and finding out about him and his family especially the breakdancing portion with him and his brothers that was really cute and I enjoyed that. Also finding out that he had a sister that kind of broke out on her own was interesting as well.
January 19, 2021
A quick but fun read and the Fire Nation edition feels worth adding to any ATLA fan’s collection. There’s a solid handful of grammatical errors (not sure if it’s just a Fire Nation edition thing or not) throughout the book but nothing atrocious enough to DNF. Enjoyed getting quite personal anecdotes about his work I was already familiar with and treasured in my childhood, as well as being introduced to some that I had no clue existed. Basco gave us a great insightful delve into life in a Filipino American family as well as some genuine reflections about his previous works.
February 3, 2021
This is an interesting look into the life of Dante Basco.
I only knew Basco from Avatar and Hook so it was interesting to hear more about his career and starting out. It's a fascinating memoir because it's very raw and rather short - he says what he wants to say and moves on. It's an in-depth look at Basco's childhood and experience growing up dancing and acting. There's also information on Asian artists and the work Basco has done to highlight Asian voices.
It's a great and fascinating read!
I only knew Basco from Avatar and Hook so it was interesting to hear more about his career and starting out. It's a fascinating memoir because it's very raw and rather short - he says what he wants to say and moves on. It's an in-depth look at Basco's childhood and experience growing up dancing and acting. There's also information on Asian artists and the work Basco has done to highlight Asian voices.
It's a great and fascinating read!
November 28, 2020
3.5 i guess // This was a really sweet read. I've never watched any of his stuff besides Avatar but decided it'd be cool to read it anyways. And it was. He has a sorta steam-of-consciousness style, kinda poetry style (which.... makes a lot of sense since he's a poet) and it was really nice. He's an interesting guy and it's cool to hear his experience with being a non-white actor in Hollywood. Glad I read it.
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