Book Reviews
Ford's strained debut concerns Henry Lee, a Chinese-American in Seattle who, in 1986, has just lost his wife to cancer…. The wartime persecution of Japanese immigrants is presented well, but the flatness of the narrative and Ford's reliance on numerous cultural clicheés make for a disappointing read.
Publishers Weekly
In his first novel, award-winning short-story writer Ford expertly nails the sweet innocence of first love, the cruelty of racism, the blindness of patriotism…. The result is a vivid picture of a confusing and critical time in American history. Recommended for all fiction collections.
Library Journal
Sentimental, heartfelt novel…. A timely debut that not only reminds readers of a shameful episode in American history, but cautions us to examine the present and take heed we don’t repeat those injustices.
Kirkus Reviews