Summer Online Book Club Explores Japanese Culture (June 22nd, 2023)

Session(s) date

Session(s) date:

Thursday, June 22, 2023 - 4:00pm to 5:30pm

Calling all educators, librarians, teachers, and anyone interacting with learners of any age! Join our enriching virtual book discussion event centered around the captivating novel "While I Was Away" by Waka T. Brown. By delving into this thought-provoking story, we will explore the profound themes of bullying, cultural identity, family and heritage, and the transformative power of inter-generational relationships. Immerse yourself in the backdrop of Japan, spanning from 1980 to the present, and gain a deeper understanding of the richness of Japanese culture. Upon registration, you will receive a complimentary copy of "While I Was Away" by mail. We kindly ask that you read the book before the session to fully engage in the discussion.

The story follows twelve-year-old Waka, whose life takes an unexpected turn when her parents send her to Tokyo to live with her strict grandmother. Leaving behind her friends and anticipated summer plans, Waka embarks on a transformative journey that challenges her sense of identity and belonging. Adjusting to life in Japan, she encounters difficulties with reading and writing kanji and struggles to connect with her complicated and distant grandmother, Obaasama. Moreover, Waka becomes the target of ridicule by her Japanese classmates, further deepening her feelings of being an outsider in the country meant to be her ancestral home.

As the narrative unfolds, the story raises profound questions about Waka's true sense of belonging. Having always been known as the "smart Japanese girl" in America, she now finds herself labeled as the "dumb foreigner" in Japan. Waka must navigate this internal conflict, embarking on a personal quest to discover her genuine home and forge her unique identity. Along her journey, she confronts the challenges posed by cultural differences, academic pressures, and the weight of societal expectations.

During our discussion, we will collectively explore the complexities students like Waka face and contemplate how to integrate East Asian perspectives into our teaching practices. By creating inclusive learning environments that celebrate diversity and foster empathy, we can empower our students and embrace the transformative potential of this poignant novel.Don't miss this opportunity to delve into the exciting world of "While I Was Away" and its implications for our educational practices!

Overview:

Are you looking for some summer workshops? Calling all educators, librarians, teachers, and anyone interacting with learners of any age! Join our enriching virtual book discussion event centered around the captivating novel "While I Was Away" by Waka T. Brown. By delving into this thought-provoking story, we will explore the profound themes of bullying, cultural identity, family and heritage, and the transformative power of inter-generational relationships. Immerse yourself in the backdrop of Japan, spanning from 1980 to the present, and gain a deeper understanding of the richness of Japanese culture. Upon registration, you will receive a complimentary copy of "While I Was Away" by mail. We kindly ask that you read the book before the session to fully engage in the discussion.