A review by simonas
The Buddha in the Attic by Julie Otsuka

challenging emotional sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.75

Gorgeous prose centering on the lives of Japanese "photo brides" and the generation of Japanese immigrants and Japanese Americans affected by Japanese internment. The story is told from the plural first person of the Japanese women, spanning from their arrival to the United States as brides-to-be to their forceful removal from their homes after Pearl Harbor. Absolutely stunning use of plural narration: individual experiences are woven together seamlessly to create a mosaic of community, with all of their differences and similarities highlighted. A heartbreaking and hauntingly beautiful embrace of womanhood. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings