Japanese War Brides in America: An Oral History

I empathize with the hardships these young Japanese women had to endure and I admire their will and strength to overcome them. Because of the war, they were raised at a time when all young Japanese had to face great difficulties. These young women however, from fanciful notions of love that God plants in everyone, found a unique solution. For many it meant turning their backs on family, customs, and country, but they did so, in the name of love. For each it was a commendable, courageous action. I find no fault with them.The book by its nature is about the women and principally expresses their experiences. It is unfortunate there is no more from the male side than an occasional nod of approval. Talk about a one-sided story...My main objection is, I find the book too much a fluff piece which misses much of the reality of the circumstances. It's as if the authors and contributors were constricted by Victorian morality. I tired of reading such statements of courtship as "we fell in love." Where is the passion and sexual excitement? I served in the Occupation, in Tokyo, 1951-1952. As a twenty-year-old, healthy American male, I took a great interest in the Japanese girls. I found one described as the "most beautiful girl in Tokyo." I went bonkers over her and tried all my charm and resources to get her to the futon. Finally, after making a commitment, we "shacked-up" (a word of the common vernacular you'll not find in the subject book). Thus began many months of the most intense and satisfying loving sexual relationship imaginable. But, as it approached time for my return to the States, I could not conceive of getting married, it just wasn't in my thought pattern. In many ways I regret leaving my girl behind, but considering the wonderful life I've had, I've been well blessed.Another objection is the total lack of any recognition by these ladies in their narratives of Japan as an aggressor that committed horrible atrocities. Anyone unfamiliar with history reading their accounts would wonder why we wreaked such destruction on their country. If anyone wishes to respond: [email protected]

An informative book about the lives of Japanese war brides and their happiness and struggle. All 19 Japanese War Brides have an interesting tale that expresses the extreme cultural differences between Japan and America.

We've had bountiful post-war perspectives from the David's of the world, especially one's wanting to recount their past glories without deep understanding and consideration for the women and the consequences of US occupation, post war hardships, and mix-race relationships.These stories from these amazing women are complex encompassing many issues experienced in their time but not often talked about openly--even within the pages of this book. These women are allowed the discretion to tell their story as they wish and within the context of their cultural comfort. I have so much respect for the strength and courage of these women. I am so thank to the authors for tackling the subject as there is so little attention on these women, especially Asian women from a holistic approach where THIER voices and perspectives are heard. Thank you!