Mother-Daughter Relationships

By nature, the relationship between a mother and daughter is complicated because it involves imperfect people. Additionally, less than perfect situations can magnify the differences.

In this novel, Mika Suzuki is in her mid-30s. Her mother Hiromi moved to America with her family when Mika was only six. Mika gave birth at age 19 after being raped. She gave up her daughter Penny for adoption. The relationships among these three characters and Penny's relationship with her adoptive mother Caroline Calvin are a driving part of the novel.

The relationship between Mika and Hiromi has always been strained. Hiromi is very traditional in her actions and beliefs, and she is very demanding of Mika. She shows no kindness or affection. Mika has nothing to show that Hiromi cares for her. Mika feels she was supposed to be an accessory for her mother's life. An example of...