| Irrepressibly sincere, to the point and insightful describe this essay-formatted paperback that details the trials and misadventures of a young Japanese girl trying to adapt to the pitfalls of growing up… a story that may cross cultural boundaries several times over. -River Walk Journal  The simplicity of language lends a credibility to Weldon’s voice as if she is dictating her story in Japanese and broken English to her daughter Linda… She has written her memories into a minute-sized book that is a giant in feeling. – Lee Gooden, OALA Book Reviews/In The Fray Magazine Providing insight into Japanese culture and society, love across cultures, and the challenges faced in expatriation, the book offers the child a means to experience not only another culture, but to develop an appreciation for other lifestyles, experiences, and perspectives. -Center for Japanese Studies, University of Michigan …charmingly illustrated…a record of the sometimes extraordinary experiences of an ordinary woman in 19th century Japan. -Suzanne Kamata, Japan Visitor …a cross-cultural jewel, sparkling with very private glimpses of what it was like to grow up in Japan during and after WWII, and later in the U.S. married to an American man. -Nancy Pugh, President 2005, Japan American Society Women’s Association of St. Louis Yaeko’s memories, written down by her daughter Linda for her own family, are a remarkable gift for all young people as well as for those who recall this period from their own perspectives. -Frances Benham, PhD., Retired Library Director To those who are her contemporaries, it is a heart-grabbing story retold, a distant but strong sound in our memory lane. To those who are of a younger generation, it is a good story that gives a sense of history without frills and spins. -Yoshiaki Shibusawa, President 2005, St. Louis Japan Society |
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Among many other parts of the book, I found it intriguing to read about Yaeko’s time in adjusting to such a massively different culture in the States and how she transitioned into American daily life.
A quick and refreshing read, and well worth seeing 20th Century life through the eyes of an amazing life few of us have lived.
– Tim Hill, Author of the Joe the Crab children’s book series