What better book to indulge in on a snowy January day than one with sparkling ocean waves, gently swaying palm trees, and the scent of plumeria, jasmine, and tuberose mingling in the air? That’s what I thought to myself as I grabbed Alan Brennert’s Honolulu off the shelf with my freezing cold hands a few days ago. Even though this book is 431 pages, it reads very fast. The story is narrated by a Korean picture bride, Jin, who leaves the oppressive world of Korea for the hope of a better life in Hawaii in the early 20th century. This was a fascinating and well told story which weaved together the history of Hawaii (in particular, the city of Honolulu) with that of the Korean culture. I learned much about the relationship between Japanese and Koreans during the early 20th century and Confucian ideals of women. As with many cultures, women were expected to keep their faces covered, to live in the “inner room” of their homes while the men occupied the “outer rooms,” and they were denied an education (it was seen as shameful and dangerous for a woman to have too much knowledge), and they could never look a man directly in the eyes. I found this slightly disturbing, as I am using a Confucius quote on one of the handouts I made for my students. I didn’t know he was such a sexist pig! Sometimes, great thinkers have some great flaws. In any case, I highly recommend this book. Now, not only do I want to return to Hawaii and bask in some warm rays and breath in the sweet scent of the island (which would be much better than the stench of manure that’s been floating on the ice cold breezes of Logan), but I really want some kimchi! It’s been too long! I wonder if I can convince Miles to accompany me for some Korean b.b.q....
That is exactly how I felt the whole time I was reading this book. I miss our Korean food outings!
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