The Buddha in the Attic
For they were Buddhas now, who resided in the Land of Bliss.
Julie Otsuka • The Buddha in the Attic
A girl must blend into a room: she must be present without appearing to exist.
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
MOSTLY, they were ashamed of us.
Julie Otsuka • The Buddha in the Attic
if there had been a way of going to America without marrying one, we would have figured it out.
Julie Otsuka • The Buddha in the Attic
Most of us left speaking only English, so as not to anger the crowds that had gathered to watch us go.
Julie Otsuka • The Buddha in the Attic
handed their money over to our bosses,
Julie Otsuka • The Buddha in the Attic
because in America you got nothing for free.
Julie Otsuka • The Buddha in the Attic
They took us even though we bit them.