The Floating World

I am such a fan of Kadohata's post-apocalyptic In the Heart of the Valley of Love (1992), which I read many years ago that I've been hoping ever since for a new novel by this author. Alas! It appears that she now writes solely for young readers. The Floating World is Kadohata's first novel (1989). It's an elegant and often quirky coming-of-age story, well-written and enjoyable to read. Olivia, the "heroine," recounts the somewhat non-linear story of her childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood in an itinerant Japanese-American family, moving around the American West in the 1950s. After years on the road, they finally settle down in Gibson in rural Arkansas in a community of Japanese-Americans who primarily work in the local chicken show more hatcheries, sexing chicks. Kadohata writes with great understanding of the idiosyncrasies of each member of a family, as well as the ties that bind them together. show less

I usually don't finish a book I know I will be giving a two star rating (based solely on my enjoyment value, NOT the quality of the writing). I continued with this one because I was intrigued to read about a slice of America which I had very little familiarity with; Japanese Americans after WWII. While I admit to learning some interesting things, who knew chicken sexing was a thing? The author failed to connect the long rambling memories of the narrator with history, culture or family. At least I did not find any of those connections; and I need them to enjoy a story. Especially a story which doesn't seem to have a point. Anyway, others may find more enjoyment in this than I did.

i really liked this. linked short stories with the same characters--in order i think except for one story. non-family characters come and go. what happened to her first boyfriend? if this is the author she had an interesting childhood and youth.