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The Earthquake Doll
The gap between the old Japan and the new is never so wide as when it tears open a young girl’s
heart…
It's 1952 Japan, seven years since the war was lost to the Americans, seven years since Miyoko
lost her father and the home of her birth. Now she must earn a living caring for the children of
an American family at the nearby air base.
When tragedy strikes, sixteen-year-old Miyoko is ordered to obey her family's wishes or disgrace
the memory of her father and bring hardship upon her family. Tradition says she must obey, but
her secret heart whispers that the new laws can free her.
As the earth trembles and splits beneath her, Miyoko must jump forward—or back.
THE EARTHQUAKE DOLL
heart…
It's 1952 Japan, seven years since the war was lost to the Americans, seven years since Miyoko
lost her father and the home of her birth. Now she must earn a living caring for the children of
an American family at the nearby air base.
When tragedy strikes, sixteen-year-old Miyoko is ordered to obey her family's wishes or disgrace
the memory of her father and bring hardship upon her family. Tradition says she must obey, but
her secret heart whispers that the new laws can free her.
As the earth trembles and splits beneath her, Miyoko must jump forward—or back.
THE EARTHQUAKE DOLL
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 6, 2013
6 people are currently reading
617 people want to read
About the author
Candace Williams
2 books77 followersCandace Williams is a late-blooming novelist who believes you can live your dream. She resides with her husband in North Carolina. Her first novel, The Earthquake Doll, was inspired by her early experiences in post-war Japan while her father was serving in the Korean Conflict. Her second novel, Gino's Law: For Every Action There's An Overreaction, is a quirky mystery set in Old East Dallas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
September 18, 2019
First and foremost, a large thank you to Candace Williams for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Having been approached by the author with a revised version of her book, I was intrigued to see what I might find and how the reading experience might shape my views on the subject she presents. Miyoko was a young girl when the Emperor declared that Japan had surrendered in the war. What would become of her family and her blessed country? As the story moves ahead seven years, Miyoko is now a teenager and seeking work. Her best option is serving as a nanny on an America military base, where she can make some money and help develop her English. She is not the only Japanese girl to do this, though the culture shock may be a little more than she expected. Hired to work with an American family, Miyoko makes a connection to the children she minds—David and Tina—as well as some of the other nannies, all while her own personal life develops. Promised her hand in marriage, Miyoko seeks to live a less traditional life and one more akin to what the Americans have brought to Japan. Still, she wants to provide the children she watches with a little lesson in Japanese culture as well, presenting them with an earthquake doll, which might be considered a tradition version of the modern ‘bobblehead’. Its body is firmly grounded with a head that bounces, used to detect tremors in the earth. With the onset of American involvement in Korea, the region is again beset by fighting and war, which will surely force Japan to choose sides, thrusting its citizens into a position of being the ally of one group and the foe of another. As Miyoko grows, she experiences many an earthquake, both literal and figurative, pushing her to become her own earthquake doll, sounding the alarm while remaining firmly rooted. Williams presents an interesting piece that is full of symbolism and cultural themes, while still being very easy to read. Recommended to those who enjoy something rich in history and full of imagery.
I was pleasantly surprised to have the author approach me, hoping that I would test the waters with the revised version of her book. I had not read the original, so I cannot draw parallels between the two, but thoroughly enjoyed my reading experience. Miyoko was quite the protagonist, offering insight into the life of a young Japanese girl who has witnessed a significant change in her country since the send of the Second World War. She is tied down to the traditions of her family and culture, but also has come to taste the new and exciting life that American presence in Japan has brought to pass. She struggles with both, but is happy to indulge a little if only to help shape her. Williams’ use of the earthquake doll to represent this new Miyoko was brilliant and the attentive reader will find a great deal of symbolism therein. Other characters serve to complement Miyoko effectively, as well as flavour the narrative effectively. Both Japanese and American influences are strong throughout, helping to create a complexity to the novel that shows the various struggles taking place. The story was well-paced and the chapters short, which proved effectively in this instance. Williams admits to drawing on her own experiences as a child who grew up on a military base in Japan, which only enriches the narrative even more. The addition of numerous Japanese words helps education the reader as they make their way through the piece. Williams has done well with this piece and I hope she can market the story to lure in many fans and new readers, both of whom will likely not be disappointed.
Kudos, Madam Williams, for a great introduction to your work. I will try some more, if only to contrast and compare with some of your other ideas.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Having been approached by the author with a revised version of her book, I was intrigued to see what I might find and how the reading experience might shape my views on the subject she presents. Miyoko was a young girl when the Emperor declared that Japan had surrendered in the war. What would become of her family and her blessed country? As the story moves ahead seven years, Miyoko is now a teenager and seeking work. Her best option is serving as a nanny on an America military base, where she can make some money and help develop her English. She is not the only Japanese girl to do this, though the culture shock may be a little more than she expected. Hired to work with an American family, Miyoko makes a connection to the children she minds—David and Tina—as well as some of the other nannies, all while her own personal life develops. Promised her hand in marriage, Miyoko seeks to live a less traditional life and one more akin to what the Americans have brought to Japan. Still, she wants to provide the children she watches with a little lesson in Japanese culture as well, presenting them with an earthquake doll, which might be considered a tradition version of the modern ‘bobblehead’. Its body is firmly grounded with a head that bounces, used to detect tremors in the earth. With the onset of American involvement in Korea, the region is again beset by fighting and war, which will surely force Japan to choose sides, thrusting its citizens into a position of being the ally of one group and the foe of another. As Miyoko grows, she experiences many an earthquake, both literal and figurative, pushing her to become her own earthquake doll, sounding the alarm while remaining firmly rooted. Williams presents an interesting piece that is full of symbolism and cultural themes, while still being very easy to read. Recommended to those who enjoy something rich in history and full of imagery.
I was pleasantly surprised to have the author approach me, hoping that I would test the waters with the revised version of her book. I had not read the original, so I cannot draw parallels between the two, but thoroughly enjoyed my reading experience. Miyoko was quite the protagonist, offering insight into the life of a young Japanese girl who has witnessed a significant change in her country since the send of the Second World War. She is tied down to the traditions of her family and culture, but also has come to taste the new and exciting life that American presence in Japan has brought to pass. She struggles with both, but is happy to indulge a little if only to help shape her. Williams’ use of the earthquake doll to represent this new Miyoko was brilliant and the attentive reader will find a great deal of symbolism therein. Other characters serve to complement Miyoko effectively, as well as flavour the narrative effectively. Both Japanese and American influences are strong throughout, helping to create a complexity to the novel that shows the various struggles taking place. The story was well-paced and the chapters short, which proved effectively in this instance. Williams admits to drawing on her own experiences as a child who grew up on a military base in Japan, which only enriches the narrative even more. The addition of numerous Japanese words helps education the reader as they make their way through the piece. Williams has done well with this piece and I hope she can market the story to lure in many fans and new readers, both of whom will likely not be disappointed.
Kudos, Madam Williams, for a great introduction to your work. I will try some more, if only to contrast and compare with some of your other ideas.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
April 29, 2018
Started reading this book yesterday and would have finished reading it in one sitting but I did have to go to bed and get some sleep! No matter though because I woke up and finished it today!
What a delightful book! I wasn't sure what to expect but the book grabbed me from the very first page. Wonderful storyline and characters. Miyoko's story, the main character in the book, will stay with me for a long time. I finished wanting more! The book is based on some real life events in the author's life. A big FIVE ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️'s!!!
A big thank you to Candace Williams, my Goodread's friend, for writing such a beautiful book! 😘
What a delightful book! I wasn't sure what to expect but the book grabbed me from the very first page. Wonderful storyline and characters. Miyoko's story, the main character in the book, will stay with me for a long time. I finished wanting more! The book is based on some real life events in the author's life. A big FIVE ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️'s!!!
A big thank you to Candace Williams, my Goodread's friend, for writing such a beautiful book! 😘
August 12, 2018
Would you like to read an authentic cultural Japanese book written by a woman who experienced the Japanese culture? Then please read The Earthquake Doll.
This book is one in a million. The author is NOT Japanese, yet she wrote a book that is so genuine.
As I read the book, I got the feeling over and over again how beautiful the phrasing and how much it felt like a Japanese person had written it.
But Candace Williams has only experienced the Japanese culture. She is not Japanese.
Synopsis
It is after the Second World War (1952, to be exact). Some women have found a new way of thinking. Some still think the traditional way. The heroine is Miyoko. She believes in traditional values. Does Miyoko have to marry someone she does not love, just to keep her family's co-op alive?
There is that and there is also an earthquake, that affects both Americans and Japanese. Lots of things go on in this book, but no spoilers here!!
Review
VERY well written. VERY entertaining plot. Please read. I especially liked the character list, the Japanese phrase list, AND the explanations of what was based on real experience and what was made up. Way to go, Candace.
Personal Connection
Ohayou Gozaimasu, good morning in Japanese.
When I was in the third grade (about 60 years ago), our pastor would gather us into the gym and read The Last Days of Pompeii. He knew Japanese; he must have been a chaplain in a Japanese speaking country during the war. He would greet us with the Japanese greeting. I remembered the SOUNDS for most of my adult life... I remembered Ohio Gazymus. Now I see it in writing, spelled more correctly. What wonderful memories it evokes. He also said How are you and we said fine, but I do not know how to phonetically type that!! (but something like 'Ekadadisqua. Yanqui dis'. Candace, can you help me??
Loved this book by a budding independent writer. Candace, can we convince you to write more?
5 stars
This book is one in a million. The author is NOT Japanese, yet she wrote a book that is so genuine.
As I read the book, I got the feeling over and over again how beautiful the phrasing and how much it felt like a Japanese person had written it.
But Candace Williams has only experienced the Japanese culture. She is not Japanese.
Synopsis
It is after the Second World War (1952, to be exact). Some women have found a new way of thinking. Some still think the traditional way. The heroine is Miyoko. She believes in traditional values. Does Miyoko have to marry someone she does not love, just to keep her family's co-op alive?
There is that and there is also an earthquake, that affects both Americans and Japanese. Lots of things go on in this book, but no spoilers here!!
Review
VERY well written. VERY entertaining plot. Please read. I especially liked the character list, the Japanese phrase list, AND the explanations of what was based on real experience and what was made up. Way to go, Candace.
Personal Connection
Ohayou Gozaimasu, good morning in Japanese.
When I was in the third grade (about 60 years ago), our pastor would gather us into the gym and read The Last Days of Pompeii. He knew Japanese; he must have been a chaplain in a Japanese speaking country during the war. He would greet us with the Japanese greeting. I remembered the SOUNDS for most of my adult life... I remembered Ohio Gazymus. Now I see it in writing, spelled more correctly. What wonderful memories it evokes. He also said How are you and we said fine, but I do not know how to phonetically type that!! (but something like 'Ekadadisqua. Yanqui dis'. Candace, can you help me??
Loved this book by a budding independent writer. Candace, can we convince you to write more?
5 stars
July 16, 2021
Hey, look what I wrote! It's my first novel and it's now up on Amazon for the Kindle, and also in print! The Nook version is coming soon. It's my dream come true. :)
Book blurb:
The gap between the old Japan and the new is never so wide as when it tears open a young girl’s
heart…
It's 1952 Japan, seven years since the war was lost to the Americans, seven years since Miyoko
lost her father and the home of her birth. Now she must earn a living caring for the children of
an American family at the nearby air base.
When tragedy strikes, sixteen-year-old Miyoko is ordered to obey her family's wishes or disgrace
the memory of her father and bring hardship upon her family. Tradition says she must obey, but
her secret heart whispers that the new laws can free her.
As the earth trembles and splits beneath her, Miyoko must jump forward—or back.
THE EARTHQUAKE DOLL
Book blurb:
The gap between the old Japan and the new is never so wide as when it tears open a young girl’s
heart…
It's 1952 Japan, seven years since the war was lost to the Americans, seven years since Miyoko
lost her father and the home of her birth. Now she must earn a living caring for the children of
an American family at the nearby air base.
When tragedy strikes, sixteen-year-old Miyoko is ordered to obey her family's wishes or disgrace
the memory of her father and bring hardship upon her family. Tradition says she must obey, but
her secret heart whispers that the new laws can free her.
As the earth trembles and splits beneath her, Miyoko must jump forward—or back.
THE EARTHQUAKE DOLL
June 1, 2014
I had just barely read forty pages until today. I finally had time to really read. I thought I'd sit in the tub and read for an hour. Two hours later I forced myself out of the tub but couldn't stop reading. I just finished it. I am anxiously waiting for more from this author. It was so well written the images played out in my head like a beautiful movie.
March 27, 2014
“Those who don’t remember the past are doomed to repeat it.” George Santayana – Philosopher and Poet
You’ve probably heard or seen this quote or a variation of it at some point. For me at least, when I’m reading historical fiction, in the back of my mind I’m comparing the world as it was then to now. It’s a way to “remember,” either reminding me of a time I lived through or giving me a perspective of an era, like this one, that I didn’t experience. The Earthquake Doll triggered plenty of those thoughts, mainly related to the life of the American family Miyoko works for and the aftermath of war.
However, even more interesting was the Japanese culture which at the time was going through some major upheavals with young people rebelling against tradition that no longer made sense. Miyoko is torn as she struggles with the conflict between the old and new ways and is forced to make a life changing decision between two options, each one with its price. The result is a gripping coming of age story set against a unique backdrop of time and place.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
You’ve probably heard or seen this quote or a variation of it at some point. For me at least, when I’m reading historical fiction, in the back of my mind I’m comparing the world as it was then to now. It’s a way to “remember,” either reminding me of a time I lived through or giving me a perspective of an era, like this one, that I didn’t experience. The Earthquake Doll triggered plenty of those thoughts, mainly related to the life of the American family Miyoko works for and the aftermath of war.
However, even more interesting was the Japanese culture which at the time was going through some major upheavals with young people rebelling against tradition that no longer made sense. Miyoko is torn as she struggles with the conflict between the old and new ways and is forced to make a life changing decision between two options, each one with its price. The result is a gripping coming of age story set against a unique backdrop of time and place.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
March 22, 2014
This story is told through Miyoko's eyes as she struggles with profound cultural changes that no doubt swept through Japanese society after World War II. The philosophical and physiological affect on Japanese women struggling between traditional values and the modern freedoms brought in from the west was exemplified through Miyoko's story.
The characters were well defined and the situations were believable. It was educational to see Japanese culture through Japanese eyes. We have all heard about how respected honor is to the Japanese people, but I doubt many understand the depths of the word as far as this society is concerned. I know I had to sit back to take it all in.
This is a wonderful story and I feel enlightened having read it. The lessons Miyoko learned are as complex as her history and are summed up in these two quotes. “Obedience without choice is not honorable. It is merely survival, without grace or joy.” and “...to survive one must be able to bend without breaking.” The story is how she came to realize these truths. The plot moves at a good pace as Miyoko struggles with her dilemma of how to keep harmony with her family, friends, and most of all her own secret heart. Outstanding job for a debut novel, Ms. Williams.
FYI: Ms. Williams has included a glossary of Japanese terms and family relations at the beginning of the book. I was a bit overwhelmed seeing these worrying I wouldn't be able to follow, but the author made it easy, it was a needless concern. My insecurities always jump to the forefront of my brain. I need to work on that.
Format/Typo Issues: Nothing at all jumped out at me with editing or formatting.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** March 19, 2014
The characters were well defined and the situations were believable. It was educational to see Japanese culture through Japanese eyes. We have all heard about how respected honor is to the Japanese people, but I doubt many understand the depths of the word as far as this society is concerned. I know I had to sit back to take it all in.
This is a wonderful story and I feel enlightened having read it. The lessons Miyoko learned are as complex as her history and are summed up in these two quotes. “Obedience without choice is not honorable. It is merely survival, without grace or joy.” and “...to survive one must be able to bend without breaking.” The story is how she came to realize these truths. The plot moves at a good pace as Miyoko struggles with her dilemma of how to keep harmony with her family, friends, and most of all her own secret heart. Outstanding job for a debut novel, Ms. Williams.
FYI: Ms. Williams has included a glossary of Japanese terms and family relations at the beginning of the book. I was a bit overwhelmed seeing these worrying I wouldn't be able to follow, but the author made it easy, it was a needless concern. My insecurities always jump to the forefront of my brain. I need to work on that.
Format/Typo Issues: Nothing at all jumped out at me with editing or formatting.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** March 19, 2014
January 2, 2015
A glowing recommendation from a book blogger led me to this book by Candace Williams. I was wholeheartedly pleased that I took note and purchased a copy. This is a graceful, unique coming of age story set against the shifting moral and cultural landscape of Japan in the 1950s—traditional values versus Western influence. It is smooth, well written, and there are no easy answers for these characters. I enjoyed the immersion in the culture and ached for Miyoko to find a way out of her difficult situation—stuck between the honor of her family and the pain of possibly losing the old ways. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
January 29, 2014
I've just finished reading Candace's wonderful novel, and my only regret is that the story is over. Beautifully written, with a central character that tugs at the heart-strings. I do adore Japanese culture, so perhaps I came to this somewhat biased, but I really enjoyed every word. More please, Candace.
June 18, 2017
3.5 stars
I really enjoyed this look into how life must have changed for the Japanese after the Second World War.
An enjoyable short read for anyone who loves Japanese culture.
I really enjoyed this look into how life must have changed for the Japanese after the Second World War.
An enjoyable short read for anyone who loves Japanese culture.
January 4, 2015
Candace Williams' The Earthquake Doll is a fascinating, emotionally charged and thought provoking story about Japan in 1952 in the aftermath of World War II and about 16 year old Miyoko.
Japan lost the war and Miyoko lost her father. Now Miyoko works for an American family, at the nearby air base, looking after their children. She is confronted every day with changes to the life she knew before the war, it's devastating end for Japan. Because there are more westerners in Japan and the loss of the war the younger generation start to question the old traditional ways of obedience to the Emperor and the older generation. Miyoko's family is very traditional still believing in the everything that has been handed down to them, now she is faced with a dilemma her parents have arranged for her to be married to a man she does not know or love, does Miyoko marry for her parents sake and keep the old traditions? or does she refuse because she has fallen in love thereby bringing disgrace to her father's name and the family? Miyoko is torn with a wide array of emotions considering all she is hearing from the new people in her life and from her own family and others who still believe in the old ways, Miyoko is torn by her feelings.. what will she decide to do for herself.
The Earthquake Doll is quite beautiful and I especially enjoying learning about the traditional Japanese way of life and then we have the growing changes in the country and within families. The book was very insightful into the types of conflict that occurred between older and younger generations. I am glad that Miyoko chose the way she did, but would have liked to find out what happened to her afterwards... perhaps another book?
4 Stars for a well written, character driven story!
Japan lost the war and Miyoko lost her father. Now Miyoko works for an American family, at the nearby air base, looking after their children. She is confronted every day with changes to the life she knew before the war, it's devastating end for Japan. Because there are more westerners in Japan and the loss of the war the younger generation start to question the old traditional ways of obedience to the Emperor and the older generation. Miyoko's family is very traditional still believing in the everything that has been handed down to them, now she is faced with a dilemma her parents have arranged for her to be married to a man she does not know or love, does Miyoko marry for her parents sake and keep the old traditions? or does she refuse because she has fallen in love thereby bringing disgrace to her father's name and the family? Miyoko is torn with a wide array of emotions considering all she is hearing from the new people in her life and from her own family and others who still believe in the old ways, Miyoko is torn by her feelings.. what will she decide to do for herself.
The Earthquake Doll is quite beautiful and I especially enjoying learning about the traditional Japanese way of life and then we have the growing changes in the country and within families. The book was very insightful into the types of conflict that occurred between older and younger generations. I am glad that Miyoko chose the way she did, but would have liked to find out what happened to her afterwards... perhaps another book?
4 Stars for a well written, character driven story!
April 30, 2015
I first read this wonderful story several years ago, and just finished reading it a second time yesterday (4/29/15). It is the deceptively simple tale of a teenage Japanese girl set as her country is emerging from crushing defeat in World War II. Why deceptive? Because it offers tremendous insight (for an American, at least) into the culture of Imperial Japan at the middle-class family level. Miyoko is caught in a tradition- and honor-bound system that is being exposed for the first time to American values and customs. A transition from the old ways to the new is rocking the people of this land just as an earthquake rocks the land itself.
Ms. Williams captures the emotions and anxieties of a young girl's first love in the midst of a culture that forbids her to pursue it. The story is gentle on the surface, but powerful underneath. The details of clothing, language and attitudes make it clear that the author experienced much of this upheaval first hand.
I believe this book is appropriate for all ages from early teens to adults, and has the potential to become a classic much as the "Little House on the Prairie" series has. It is an artistic treasure you will enjoy.
Ms. Williams captures the emotions and anxieties of a young girl's first love in the midst of a culture that forbids her to pursue it. The story is gentle on the surface, but powerful underneath. The details of clothing, language and attitudes make it clear that the author experienced much of this upheaval first hand.
I believe this book is appropriate for all ages from early teens to adults, and has the potential to become a classic much as the "Little House on the Prairie" series has. It is an artistic treasure you will enjoy.
February 20, 2014
Excellent book about growing up in the "new" Japan after WWII. Miyoko is living with her Aunt and Uncle in Sapporo and obeys the time-honored traditions of Japanese living, and what one must do to honor the family.
I honestly didn't think that I would like this book, because it is after the big World War, and I usually don't enjoy books or movies about that period of time. But this was so well-written, and had enough of the Japanese words artfully arranged throughout the book that it was a very worthwhile read.
It was very interesting that Rumiko ended up loving Koji, and marrying him, although she was firmly against arranged marriages. And I was so glad that Miyoko did not marry Udo. What a disaster that man was! Luckily, Tadashi came back into her life, and hopefully they would marry someday.
I honestly didn't think that I would like this book, because it is after the big World War, and I usually don't enjoy books or movies about that period of time. But this was so well-written, and had enough of the Japanese words artfully arranged throughout the book that it was a very worthwhile read.
It was very interesting that Rumiko ended up loving Koji, and marrying him, although she was firmly against arranged marriages. And I was so glad that Miyoko did not marry Udo. What a disaster that man was! Luckily, Tadashi came back into her life, and hopefully they would marry someday.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2013
What would you do if another culture became part of your world, forcing you to try to blend the old with the new? This book faces the question with a deftly handled romance. This is a great read for all ages.
October 18, 2014
A nice short novel and an easy read. I also like how different it is to the usual books about Japan and their culture. I found it interesting that the Author was inspired by her childhood, being the girl Tina in the book.
December 19, 2014
This is a great book looking back and into another culture of young people who similarly in all cultures want the same thing. What is so good about it is my 15 year old granddaughter would enjoy it, it is an innocent young love story suitable for her age group.
April 28, 2015
What a beautifully written story that examines the roles of family and honour in Japanese post war society through the eye of Miyoko. Such an easy and involving read
January 9, 2015
This book reminded me so much of our time living in northern Japan! I actually enjoyed the simple nature of the story and the characters.
January 23, 2015
A quick, easy but good read.
June 24, 2024
This is such a beautiful story. Thank you, Celia, for finding it and thank you, Candace, for writing it.
November 13, 2015
The Earthquake Doll - Candace Williams The Earthquake Doll is the sort of deceptively simple story that you keep thinking about, long after you've reached the end of the book.It's 1952 in Japan. The victorious Americans have never left, and in fact are about to begin using Japan as a base of operations for the Korean War. Japan's traditional ways clash with modern American customs, and the Japanese are trying to make sense of it all.Among those navigating this brave, new world is 16-year-old Miyoko. Her uncle has found her a position as a maid in the home of an American officer, and her mother and her mother's sister are arranging a marriage for her, even though she is too young to get married by traditional standards. And then Miyoko's cousin dies, and the foundation of her world really begins to shake. Somehow, she must find a way out of her dilemma without disgracing either herself or her family.Williams is an excellent storyteller. I found myself rooting for Miyoko the whole way through the story. In addition, the author does her best to explain the Japanese words in the book, to the point of linking them to the glossary that she has helpfully included.I'd recommend The Earthquake Doll to anyone with an interest in postwar Japan, Japanese culture, or fine storytelling.
May 12, 2017
This is a fast read with a story that, on the surface, appears to be simple but deep down between the lines it tells a more complex story.
Taking place seven years after the end of World War II, the story follows sixteen year old Miyoko as she accepts a job as a housemaid at an American base in Sapporo, Japan. There she realizes the world as she knew it is slowly beginning to change, as young Japanese teenagers and young adults quickly embrace the influence brought to their traditional culture by the West.
Tragedy strikes Miyoko's family and leaves Miyoko with a choice: remain traditional and live in misery? Or embrace modernization and potentially lose her identity? Can she find a balance between the two while still maintaining her honor and making herself and her family happy?
The story proves to be both touching and thought provoking. While also providing historical and cultural insight to a country that, in the near 72 years since the end of WWII, has become the most technologically advanced and modernized country in the world. And yet despite the changes, still embrace their history and many of their traditions today.
Taking place seven years after the end of World War II, the story follows sixteen year old Miyoko as she accepts a job as a housemaid at an American base in Sapporo, Japan. There she realizes the world as she knew it is slowly beginning to change, as young Japanese teenagers and young adults quickly embrace the influence brought to their traditional culture by the West.
Tragedy strikes Miyoko's family and leaves Miyoko with a choice: remain traditional and live in misery? Or embrace modernization and potentially lose her identity? Can she find a balance between the two while still maintaining her honor and making herself and her family happy?
The story proves to be both touching and thought provoking. While also providing historical and cultural insight to a country that, in the near 72 years since the end of WWII, has become the most technologically advanced and modernized country in the world. And yet despite the changes, still embrace their history and many of their traditions today.
December 12, 2013
I have loved this book since I first read it, and now am thrilled to recommend it to others. A beautiful coming of age story about a sixteen-year-old girl in post-WWII-war Japan, touching and lovely.
April 7, 2016
A story that cleverly explains the changing ways in Japan post WW11
May 8, 2018
The book gives the reader an inside look at Japanese family culture in the early 1950s. The author left herself a lead into a sequel. Enjoyable.
November 2, 2025
This isn't the genre I typically read but I was surprised by how much I liked it.
The book gives a look into the aftermath of WWII in Japan through the eyes of Miyoko. As she spends time with the American children she nannies she is introduced to a different culture and a changing way of life for the Japanese.
The book gives a look into the aftermath of WWII in Japan through the eyes of Miyoko. As she spends time with the American children she nannies she is introduced to a different culture and a changing way of life for the Japanese.
May 13, 2016
Baffled by the reviews on this book. It was just terrible. I always finish a book once I start it, and that is the sole reason I continued to read this one. The only perk is that you can get through it very quickly because it reads like it was written by a high school student. Very elementary and basic (not in a good way).
October 6, 2019
Loved it
This is a story set in post war Japan in the 1940-1950s. The main character Miyoko is a young Japanese woman on the brink of womanhood. She is torn between her loyalty and obligation to her family verses the new post war woman with new freedoms. Great story, pulled me in from the first chapter. Get this book, you will love it!
This is a story set in post war Japan in the 1940-1950s. The main character Miyoko is a young Japanese woman on the brink of womanhood. She is torn between her loyalty and obligation to her family verses the new post war woman with new freedoms. Great story, pulled me in from the first chapter. Get this book, you will love it!
October 9, 2019
Williams offers readers a lovely chance to visit post war Japan, specifically the women of one family as they navigate the world now an ever changing mixture of old and new.
My copy was a gift through Goodreads First Reads.
My copy was a gift through Goodreads First Reads.
February 13, 2020
This wonderful story set in a time in Japan's history that they had a catharsis of traditional ideas has won a much earned award for historical fiction.
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