Recommended by Phyllis.

Written like a poem, and wide-reaching, encompassing many, not just one, experiences of the life of Japanese picture brides. The division of chapters was fascinating, and the last chapter was very striking.

This beautifully and uniquely written gem explores the world of the Japanese war bride.

a gem

I loved the format of this book and the many different voices represented here. will now read When the emperor was divine.

Curiously flat. For me, this little book was remarkable only for its persistent matter-of-factness, which soon began to undermine the emotional wallop it should have packed. If this is akin to a poem, it might explain why poetry is read mainly by intellectuals these days. I couldn't finish it, not because it was so poignant, but because (and I truly hate to say this) I was bored. Perhaps I'll try it again after some time has passed.

I agree that the book reads like a series of lists but I see it as a long poem. I think it would be very powerful if read aloud. Even silently, it had a strong impact. I truly think Otsuka writes like a poet. And writing about the Japanese Americans just prior to their internment during WWII is important history to us all. An excellent book.

Reads like a list of lists. Disappointing.

Gives universal emotional impact to a very specific American ethnic experience.

Excruciatingly beautiful story of the Japanese 'relocation' from homes in northern California. Of all the treasures they had to leave, perhaps the dogs they abandoned expressed the most poignant sorrow. It's a mercy this fine book is short. I couldn't bear another page.