When the Emperor Was Divine

By: Julie Otsuka

Narrated by: Elaina Erika Davis

Julie Otsuka’s commanding debut novel paints a portrait of the Japanese internment camps unlike any we have ever seen. With crystalline intensity and precision, Otsuka uses a single family to evoke the deracination—both physical and emotional—of a generation of Japanese Americans. In five chapters, each flawlessly executed from a different point of view—the mother receiving the order to evacuate; the daughter on the long train ride to the camp; the son in the desert encampment; the family’s return to their home; and the bitter release of the father after more than four years in captivity—she has created a small tour de force, a novel of unrelenting economy and suppressed emotion. Spare, intimate, arrestingly understated, When the Emperor Was Divine is a haunting evocation of a family in wartime and an unmistakably resonant lesson for our times. It heralds the arrival of a singularly gifted new novelist.©2003 Julie Otsuka; (P)2003 Random House, Inc., Random House Audio, A Division of Random House, Inc.

Unspoken history that is relevant today

Well written emotional and sad - a shameful part of American history- that needs retelling over and over lest we forget who we were are are

Beautiful, lyrical, haunting

This is a masterful and lyrical exploration of the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII. Through skillful use of point of view, the author explores this unimaginable chapter in American history through the eyes of multiple characters, including two young children. The whole novel almost feels like one long poem, gently gathering momentum until you realize you’re moving at breakneck speed.

Excellent

Fascinating book, couldn't wait to drive home to turn on the ipod and listen.
A classic

Great audio. Word for word from book. Sad story.

I was confused initially about the dog being killed. But it later made sense. Book is boring. Audio flows much better.

Executive Order 9066- Japanese Internment

Julie Otsuka's book takes the reader into the lives of a small Japanese American family as they are 'evacuated' and interned in a camp throughout World War two and then on to their return to civilization after the war. The story with bring tears, anger, questions, and greater vision to the reader. The author dealt with this delicate subject with great dignity and grace. The journey taken was enlightening and the imagery used throughout was insightful and memorable. Best book club read of the year.