This anthology of work by Asian and Pacific Islander (API) prisoners is the first book to highlight the unique stories and perspectives of this growing prisoner population in the U.S. 22 talented API prisoner writers, poets, and artists have contributed to this anthology, which was initiated and co-edited by Eddy Zheng, who was recently released from prison and immigration detention after over two decades behind bars.

Presented in collaboration with Asian Prisoner Support Committee.

Oh! is an art-filled and intricately designed novel of Zack Hara’s self-discovery through Japanese poetry, the aesthetic of mono no aware (“things causing intense emotional awareness”), and the tragic phenomenon of suicide clubs formed in social networking websites.

Little Tokyo is home to several restaurants, bakeries, and other historical eating establishments. Its 100-plus years of history provide some fascinating stories. Six Taste's Little Tokyo Tour will take you throughout Little Tokyo, from Fugetsu-Do, a confectionary shop and the oldest building in Little Tokyo to Chado Tea Room, where you'll get to taste some authentic Japanese tea, to several other restaurants and other eateries.

Six Taste's food tours are more than just walking and eating. They hope to provide you with an entertaining, educational, and exciting experience. You'll learn about Japanese culture, the history of Little Tokyo, the art and science of tasting, and have great conversations over great food.

The "Gastronaut Tour" includes a balance of history, culture, and delicious food. You'll stop at some of the most fascinating historical locations in Little Tokyo, meet owners of some of the longest running stores in Little Tokyo, try amazing food at seven different locations, and learn about Japanese culture and culinary customs. This tour is perfect for tourists or LA natives that have never ventured into Little Tokyo before.

$50 members; $55non-members, includes Museum admission. Comfortable walking shoes and warm clothes recommended. Weather permitting.

For more information about Six Taste, go to www.sixtaste.com.

Please join us for a wonderful book reading and signing of Jive Bomber: A Sentimental Journey by Bruce T. Kaji with Sharon Yamato Whether as a member of the popular Jive Bomber band at Manzanar, a leader in the redevelopment of Little Tokyo, or as the founding president of the Japanese American National Museum, Bruce T. Kaji has stood at the forefront of the LA’s Nikkei community. Jive Bomber: A Sentimental Journey traces his life as a Nisei coming of age during a turbulent time. Filled with stories of struggle and hope, Kaji writes about growing up in Boyle Heights, being incarcerated at Manzanar, joining the Army and later the Military Intelligence Service, and finally returning to Los Angeles to a highly successful career in business as president of Merit Savings & Loan. In his own straightforward way, he writes with an insider’s view of Little Tokyo that spans decades of service to his community.

Please RSVP by August 12, 2010 to Lauren Antoku at (213) 830-5657 or lantoku@janm.org.

In a page-turning novel set during World War II, Japanese-American Lt. Ken Kobayashi must straddle a delicate line between duty to country and honor to his family as he is assigned by General Douglas MacArthur to infiltrate the Imperial Japanese Army in the lead-up to the American invasion of the Japanese archipelago.

From the deck of the U.S.S. Yorktown to the halls of the Imperial Ministry of War in Ichigaya in Tokyo, The Flowers of Edo reveals the intricacies of the military machine and the human and cultural price that was paid in the bombings on Japan through a perspective never before seen in fiction.

About the Author:
Michael Dana Kennedy graduated from Harvard University with a dual major in history and political science then attended Tufts University School of Medicine for two years. He founded two companies, both of which he sold. He then turned his attention to his life-long interest in history and began researching and writing The Flowers of Edo.

For more information on the novel and a free preview, visit the publisher’s website at www.vertical-inc.com/books/flowersofedo/index.html.