The Grocery Store

Ichiro’s father and mother own a small grocery store, and they live in a few rooms in the back.

Seattle

Most of the story takes place in Ichiro’s hometown of Seattle, Washington, in a neighborhood largely Japanese-American.

Slide Rule

A slide rule is an instrument used for mathematic calculations. In this book, it is a symbol of an American education, and of Ichiro’s love for his prewar life as a college student studying engineering.

Portland

Kenji and Ichiro drive to Portland, Oregon, where Kenji dies in a veteran’s hospital. Ichiro thinks about moving to Portland, but decides he needs to resolve his issues at home.

Kenji’s Car

Kenji is able to afford a new car because of the government pension he receives for his war service and injuries. He trusts Ichiro to drive the car back to Kenji’s father...