"I believe those early Issei (first generation Japanese immigrant) women must have had tremendous reserves of strength and courage to do what they did.... Theirs was a determination and endurance born ... of an uncommon spirit." (Chapter 1, 6)

"Their marriage was an arranged one, as was the custom of their day. But I have always thought the professors who planned the match must surely have taken great pride in the glorious success of their endeavor." (Chapter 1, 24)

"Our parents' Japaneseness is still very much a part of us." (Chapter 2, 31)

"Their [Yoshiko's parents] lives also reflected a blend of Buddhist philosophy dominated by Christian faith. So it was that we grew up with a strong dose of the Protestant ethic coupled with a feeling of respect for our teachers and superiors; a high regard for such qualities as frugality, hard work, patience, diligence, courtesy, and loyalty; and a sense of responsibility and...