STUBBORN TWIG Three Generations in the Life of a Japanese American Family

STUBBORN TWIG is "narrative nonfiction" in need of a compelling personal narrative. The premise is promising. Kessler follows three generations of Japanese immigrants, beginning with the arrival of Masuao Yasui in Oregon in 1903. Using personal narratives to elucidate history is a compelling and popular format. Yet Yasui's story never feels personal, but rather a framework over which to hang historical facts and demographic research. Narrator Christine Williams reads rather than performs. Her narration lacks emotional suspense and drama, although this is in part due to their absence in the text itself. Lauren Kessler's work will be best appreciated by a select group of academics, students, and historians. J.T. © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2009]