The first Japanese-American history I've ever read by a lawyer, who is also JA. Brings a depth of understanding of how deeply entrenched and systemic were the anti-Asian sentiments that combined to result in the internment ("relocation") camps. Complex issues, but lucidly and compellingly explained, interwoven with personal accounts from former incarcerees. I do wish there had been, if not photographs, at least some maps showing where the camps were, but this is a small quibble about an otherwise masterful job of bringing history to life.

This is a wonderful weave of historical events and very personal experiences, which touches the heart, makes an impression, and leaves more than a little food for thought.

These pages take a look at the WWII incarceration of Japanese-Americas and cover the time before, during and after the experience. The author starts with a few notes, explaining the research and methods used as well as laying out the foundation for the basis of the read. Then, the foreword gives the personal insight from Secretary Norma Y. Mineta, before leading into the author's own background and thoughts. From there, the book takes a chronological look at the events, always sliding and staying close to those effecting the theme. The individual recounts and thoughts are then sprinkled between the facts to create a well-knit look into the entire event.

I was looking forward to reading this one, since it's always interesting to learn history from those who lived it. My only fear was that it'd be too dry, even though it is intended for the young adult audience. This fear was completely unnecessary. The author does do a masterful job at laying out the facts...and this in an easy-to-read manner...and allowing the accounts and thoughts to slide right in between. These accounts are never too long, but offer just the right glimpse into the situation. They flow right along, letting the history come to life and not stay an arm length's away.

This is a read which will pull in more than just history-buffs. It draws the reader to thought and makes it clear that history is the experience of real people, and not just notes on a page.