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When the Emperor Was Divine

Discover the poignant tale of a Japanese-American family's internment during WWII in Julie Otsuka's "When the Emperor Was Divine."

When the Emperor Was Divine

Author: Julie Otsuka

Julie Otsuka’s haunting novel follows a Japanese-American family uprooted from their Berkeley home during World War II. Through spare, lyrical prose, she captures the confusion and heartbreak of internment, exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and loss. Otsuka’s intimate portrayal of one family’s experience sheds light on a dark chapter in American history, leaving readers to grapple with the human cost of fear and prejudice. A poignant reminder of how quickly the familiar can become foreign.

To be ordinary, unremarkable, was the greatest desire of her heart.

Reader Reviews

“A hauntingly beautiful novel that captures the heartache and resilience of Japanese American families during World War II. Otsuka’s writing is both lyrical and poignant.” – Emily Chen, Goodreads

“Julie Otsuka’s ‘When the Emperor Was Divine’ is a powerful and moving portrayal of a dark chapter in American history. The book’s spare prose and vivid imagery left a lasting impression on me.” – Michael Thompson, Amazon

“This book is a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction. Otsuka’s storytelling is masterful, and she brings to life the emotional and physical struggles of internment with grace and sensitivity.” – Sarah Williams, Barnes & Noble

“‘When the Emperor Was Divine’ is an unforgettable novel that sheds light on the injustices faced by Japanese Americans during WWII. Otsuka’s characters are deeply human, and their experiences resonate long after the final page.” – David Lee, Goodreads

“Julie Otsuka’s novel is a poignant reminder of the impact of war and prejudice on innocent lives. Her elegant prose and compelling narrative make this a book that is both educational and deeply moving.” – Linda Garcia, Amazon

About Julie Otsuka

Julie Otsuka is an acclaimed author known for her poignant and evocative storytelling. Born in 1962 in Palo Alto, California, Otsuka has made significant contributions to contemporary literature, particularly through her exploration of Japanese American experiences. Her debut novel, When the Emperor Was Divine, published in 2002, delves into the harrowing impact of Japanese American internment during World War II. The novel has been praised for its lyrical prose and historical accuracy, earning Otsuka numerous accolades, including the American Library Association’s Alex Award. Her subsequent work, The Buddha in the Attic, further cemented her reputation, winning the PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction. Otsuka’s insightful narratives and dedication to uncovering untold stories continue to resonate with readers and contribute significantly to the field of historical fiction.

Other Works by Julie Otsuka:

The Buddha in the Attic

Discover the poignant tale of Japanese picture brides in Julie Otsuka’s “The Buddha in the Attic.” A must-read for history and literature lovers.

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