The Buddha in the Attic
be noticed from afar.
Julie Otsuka • The Buddha in the Attic
EVERY EVENING, at dusk, we began burning our things: old bank statements and diaries, Buddhist family altars, wooden
Julie Otsuka • The Buddha in the Attic
They took us with groans. They took us with shouts and long-drawn-out moans.
Julie Otsuka • The Buddha in the Attic
This is America, we would say to ourselves, there is no need to worry. And we would be wrong.
Julie Otsuka • The Buddha in the Attic
This was our contribution to the war effort, we were told. An opportunity for us to prove our loyalty.
Julie Otsuka • The Buddha in the Attic
why do they have to PROVE their loyalty-race
We live like beggars.
Julie Otsuka • The Buddha in the Attic
savage than the Americans?
Julie Otsuka • The Buddha in the Attic
“Easiest job in America,” we were told.
Julie Otsuka • The Buddha in the Attic
THE DAY of our departure