Books matching: japanese american identity
9 result(s)
- #1
"No-No Boy" by John Okada is a novel set in the aftermath of World War II, focusing on Ichiro, a second-generation Japanese American man who returns home to Seattle after spending time in an internment camp and then in prison for refusing the draft. The book delves into the internal struggles of Ichiro as he grapples with issues of identity, loyalty, and racism in post-war America. Through a gritty and raw narrative, Okada explores the complexities of Japanese American experiences during a tumultuous period in history.
The writing style in "No-No Boy" is described as powerful, poignant, and introspective, offering readers a deep dive into the emotional turmoil faced by the characters. The novel presents a fresh perspective on the Asian American experience, shedding light on themes of cultural conflict, societal expectations, and the quest for belonging in a country marked by prejudice and discrimination.
Walking down the street that autumn morning with a small, black suitcase, he felt like an intruder in a world to which he had no claim. It was just enough that he should feel this way, for, of his own... - #2
'I Love You So Mochi' by Sarah Kuhn is a heartwarming coming-of-age story that follows Kimi as she embarks on a journey to Japan to discover more about herself and her family. Through her adventures, she learns about her mother's past, navigates her own self-discovery, and finds the courage to follow her passion. The book beautifully explores themes of family dynamics, self-acceptance, and the importance of staying true to oneself, all set against the backdrop of Japan's rich culture and stunning destinations.
Kimi's story is a poignant exploration of relationships, identity, and the power of pursuing one's dreams. The author skillfully weaves together a tale of love, self-discovery, and cultural exploration, drawing readers in with relatable characters, heartfelt moments, and important life lessons. With a perfect blend of humor, emotion, and romance, 'I Love You So Mochi' is a captivating read that will leave readers feeling uplifted and inspired.
It wasn’t because I’d spent a solid month collecting them: scouring the recycling bins in the cafeteria, squirreling away the remnants of Dad’s secret Twix stash, and (in a fit of impatience once I re... - #3
"This Time Will Be Different" by Misa Sugiura is a coming-of-age story following CJ Katsuyama, a Japanese American teenager, as she navigates family expectations, friendships, and her own identity. The novel delves into themes of self-discovery, the Japanese American experience, mother-daughter relationships, and feminism. CJ's journey is intertwined with the history of her family's flower shop, Heart's Desire, which is at risk of being sold to the family that profited from the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. As CJ fights to save the shop, she uncovers her family's past and learns about resilience, allyship, and the importance of standing up for what you believe in.
The writing style of the book is described as insightful, humorous, and sensitive, with a strong focus on character development and tackling heavy issues such as racism, homophobia, and parental expectations. Through CJ's perspective, the readers witness her growth, her struggles with identity and belonging, and her journey towards finding her own voice and values in a changing world.
- #4Hana-Kimi: For You in Full Blossom, Vol. 1by:Book 1 in the series:Hana-Kimi: For You in Full Blossom
In "Hana-Kimi: For You in Full Blossom, Vol. 1", readers are introduced to Mizuki, a 16-year-old Japanese American girl who disguises herself as a boy to enroll in a boys' high school in Japan in order to be closer to her idol, the high jumper Sano Izumi. The story follows Mizuki's struggles to keep her identity a secret while navigating dorm life filled with attractive guys and encouraging her friends to keep competing in various activities. The plot is light-hearted and humorous, with elements of sports, romance, and gender-bending humor intertwined in the narrative.
The author, Hisaya Nakajo, weaves a tale that combines action, romance, drama, and comedy to create a story that appeals to both male and female readers. The writing style is engaging and playful, with relatable characters like Mizuki, Nakatsu, and Sano, each adding their own unique dynamic to the storyline. The artwork is praised for its basic sketches, funny facial expressions, and ability to convey a lot of story in the first volume, enhancing the overall reading experience.
- #5
'The Buddha in the Attic' by Julie Otsuka is a unique and powerful novel that tells the story of Japanese picture brides who emigrated to the US in the early 20th century. Through a collective narrative style, the book explores the experiences of these women from their journey to America, marriage to strangers, raising families, and ultimately their internment during World War II. The author uses a poetic and collective voice to portray the struggles, joys, and tragedies faced by these women, providing a deep insight into their lives and the societal challenges they encountered.
Julie Otsuka's writing style in 'The Buddha in the Attic' is described as mesmerizing and impactful, with the use of a collective voice effectively capturing the varied experiences of the Japanese picture brides. The novel, despite its short length, delves into the complexities of culture, identity, and society, offering a poignant portrayal of a generation of women who navigated the challenges of immigration and discrimination in a new land.
On the boat we were mostly virgins. We had long black hair and flat wide feet and we were not very tall. Some of us had eaten nothing but rice gruel as young girls and had slightly bowed legs, and som... - #6
Game Misconduct by Ari Baran is a gritty and emotional hockey romance that follows the story of two enforcers, Mike and Danny, who go from fighting each other on the ice to fighting for each other off the ice. The book expertly weaves darker themes with romance and sports elements, delving into the struggles of pro athletes, addiction, depression, and personal demons. As Mike and Danny's relationship unfolds amidst the backdrop of their respective teams' season, readers are drawn into the rhythm of the game and the pressures faced by the characters both on and off the ice.
'Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet' by Jamie Ford revolves around the story of Henry Lee, a Chinese American boy, and Keiko Okabe, a Japanese American girl, as they navigate their friendship amidst the backdrop of the Japanese internment during World War II. The narrative alternates between Henry's childhood in the 1940s and his adult life in the 1980s, exploring themes of love, friendship, loyalty, and the impact of war on society.
Through personal stories and historical events, the book sheds light on the cultural tensions, racial discrimination, and the experiences of Japanese Americans during WWII, particularly in Seattle. Jamie Ford's writing style weaves together real-life events with fictional characters, creating a bittersweet tale of forbidden love, resilience, and the lasting effects of war on individuals and communities.
The old Seattle landmark was a place he’d visited twice in his lifetime. First when he was only twelve years old, way back in 1942—”the war years” he liked to call them. Even then the old bachelor hot...- #8
Shortcomings by Adrian Tomine is a graphic novel that delves into the complexities of identity, relationships, and Asian American experiences in America. The story follows the protagonist, Ben Tanaka, a 30-year-old Japanese American, as he navigates a failing relationship with his girlfriend Miko and embarks on a journey from the West Coast to the East Coast and back. Through realistic and stark illustrations, the book explores themes of racial identity, prejudice, stereotypes, and the struggles of moving on from past relationships. The characters in the novel, particularly Ben, Miko, and their friend Alice, are flawed and human, providing a raw and honest portrayal of modern life and the challenges of self-discovery.
Adrian Tomine's writing style in Shortcomings is characterized by its emotional depth, poignant storytelling, and sharp observations on Asian American experiences and relationships. The book offers a thought-provoking narrative that addresses issues of self-identity, cultural expectations, and the nuances of human interactions. Through a blend of humor, introspection, and social commentary, Tomine crafts a compelling and relatable story that resonates with readers through its exploration of love, loss, and the search for belonging in a multicultural society.
- #9
Desert Exile by Yoshiko Uchida is a poignant autobiography that delves into the experiences of Japanese Americans during World War II. Through the eyes of Uchida and her family, readers are taken on a journey of hardship and resilience as they are forcibly removed from their homes and incarcerated in internment camps. The book sheds light on the injustices faced by Japanese Americans, the struggles of identity, and the impact of war policies on innocent individuals. Uchida's writing style is described as informative, heart-touching, and eye-opening, offering readers a personal and emotional account of a dark period in American history.
Desert Exile not only narrates Yoshiko Uchida's personal story but also serves as a powerful reminder of the atrocities faced by Japanese Americans during World War II. The book humanizes the individuals who endured unimaginable conditions, providing insight into their experiences of happiness and hardship. Uchida's writing captures the essence of resilience and fortitude displayed by her family and thousands of others who were unjustly interned, making it a compelling and relevant piece of literature that highlights a lesser-known aspect of American history.
I remember the sunny yard in back with the peach and apricot and fig trees. I remember the sweetpeas that grew higher than my head, and the enormous chrysanthemums that measured seventeen inches aroun...