The Year of the BarbarianBy Elizabeth Ann BoylesDescription:
Sumi Taguchi, a samurai’s daughter, eagerly anticipates the arrival of foreigners from the West, who will end Japan’s centuries-long isolation from the world. Maybe these foreigners will bring answers to life’s troublesome riddles. But to be free to meet these newcomers, she must first avoid a nightmarish betrothal and the fallout from her rash curiosity. Book Takeaway:The reader will gain insights into mid-nineteenth century Japan and see how providence can cause people of two very different cultures to meet and begin to appreciate their common humanity. Awards:
Why the author wrote this book:The Japanese culture has fascinated me ever since I lived in Japan in my twenties, representing a Christian organization. I believe that the unusual setting offers a way to present the reality of God and his redeeming love to Americans and people with an Asian heritage without coming across as preachy. |