Mizuki's Home

Mizuki's home in the narrative present is located in Tokyo, Japan. Many of the novel's domestic scenes occur in this space. Though Mizuki says that the home is beautiful and comfortable, she finds it difficult to be happy in this realm. Her days are often replicas of one another. She spends them caring for the children, cooking for Tatsu, and putting everyone to bed. She experiences her infrequent moments of respite and calm out on the balcony. She longs for these interludes, because she can be by herself, smoking a cigarette, and observing the city beyond.

New York City

When Mizuki is a teenager, her father encourages her to apply for and accept an exchange opportunity in New York City. Mizuki is initially overwhelmed and melancholic when she leaves home. However, when she arrives and meets her host family, she is exhilarated by the newness and freedom...