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Obasan
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Plot Summary of Obasan
"This story is narrated by Naomi, a sheltered and pampered child who is five years old when her life is drastically changed by the events at Pearl Harbor and the Second World War. As a Japanese Canadian, Naomi is separated from her parents, persecuted and eventually placed in an internment camp – common practice in Canada during WWII. The one bright spot in Naomi's life is her Aunt Obasan, her protector and caregiver after she is separated from her parents.
It is only after Naomi grows up that she is able to face the hardship of her past. This novel is a striking account of one of the worst manifestations of racism in Canada's history.
"

Jennifer Selk, Resident Scholar



Review Analysis of Obasan
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Ratings are on a 1-10 scale (Low to High)
Plot
Tone of book? - depressed
Time/era of story - 1930's-1950's
Inside culture (main char) - Japanese
Family, loving relations Yes
Special relationship with - aunt
Culture clash? - Being oppressed by outside culture
Is this an adult or child's book? - Age 11-14
Ethnic/regional/gender life Yes

Main Character
Gender - Female
Age: - a kid
Is this an ordinary person caught up in events? Yes
Ethnicity/Nationality - Japanese
How sensitive is this character? - sensitive to others' feelings

Main Adversary
Identity: - society
How much of work is main antagonist actually present in: - an above average amount
How sensitive is this character? - hard edged

Setting
How much descriptions of surroundings? - 5 ()
City? Yes
Small town? Yes

Style
Person - mostly 1st
Accounts of torture and death? - generic/vague references to death/punishment
Amount of dialog - roughly even amounts of descript and dialog
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Joy Kogawa Resident Scholar Profiles

TOP SCHOLAR:
  
Jennifer Selk  

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