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“Hope can get you through anything.” ― Jamie Ford

I like a book to transport me to places I can only dream about (or read about). I want to be taken back in time to a period where war tests the human spirit. My fascination with WWII historical fiction has taken me on numerous adventures with each book I read. Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet has taken me on an amazing journey.

The story is set in 1942 Seattle’s Chinatown and Japan Town. Henry Lee, a twelve year old Chinese American, attends an all white school where he is constantly tormented by bullies for being ‘different’. Henry is a quiet kid who keeps his head down and goes tough life seemingly unnoticed. At home, Henry is asked to only speak English even though both his parents only speak Cantonese, thus, creating a barrier on communication between Henry and his father.

The conflict in the Pacific has cause animosity between Chinese and Japanese living in the west coast. This causes Henry’s father to become obsessed with the war and his hatred toward Japanese people grows.

At school, Henry meets a Japanese girl named Keiko. She is about the same age as Henry and they immediately become best friends. This friendship causes Henry a great deal of anxiety and fear because he knows how much his father dislikes Japanese people.

As the story progresses, so does Henry and Keiko’s friendship. Together they try to make sense of the world around them. With FBI raids, evacuations, Jazz music and bullies, Henry and Keiko must find a way to maintain their friendship. This story is a beautiful reminded that love will always triumph. Hope is what keeps the human spirit alive.

With stunning detail and outstanding narrative, Jamie Ford’s debut novel is a must read. In these uncertain times we’re currently living, it’s important to remember that things can only get better. They should! Henry’s story has given me hope.