Here is a review of “A Thousand Cranes”

Corbett. P. Scott. A Thousand Cranes. Los Angeles and Kansas City: Dapshow Publishers/The Heritage Group, 2022.

NOT THE TYPICAL SUMMER READ

P. Scott Corbett’s A Thousand Cranes begins with backstories introducing two of the book’s main protagonists—Roland and Alex. Both characters appear to be somewhat incorrigible from the start and although their journeys through life might seem parallel to a casual observer, the two men eventually arrive at very different emotional destinations. Corbett does an exemplary job of keeping readers’ attention as both Roland and Alex meander their way through the vicissitudes of life. The author ushers Doroteya and Astrid into the narrative whose personal stories are equally captivating to those of Roland and Alex and whose life-choices play decisive roles in each man’s destiny.

A Thousand Cranes is not the typical summer read for several reasons. First, Corbett does not succumb to the usual facile action plot of a rousing summer read, but instead brings up timely issues that continue to plague society such as the plight of veterans, the impact of child abuse, challenges in the field of education, the conundrum of East meets West, and the role of personal choice in determining one’s destiny. Corbett’s methodology also avoids turning his writing into brain candy which often typifies the usual summer read. A Thousand Cranes’ chapters are longer and provide in-depth background provoking the reader to pause and think about the issues encountered by the characters. Also, the author does not surrender to the temptation to make this a salacious (and perhaps more sellable) work by concluding the book with predictable endings; he holds out for higher ground. 

The book is not pedantic. Corbett’s extensive background in diplomatic history and experience teaching in California’s university system shine as he steers readers through some of the many snags that either result in inertia or provide catalysts for his characters as they navigate their way through life. The writing flows smoothly ultimately bringing Roland, Alex, Doroteya, and Astrid to a confluence where their destinies play out.  

A Thousand Cranes offers a good campus read not only as an impetus for discussions of the societal issues mentioned, but also for deeper discourse about the psyche of the human mind. Corbett poses several questions worth discussing in more than one discipline at university in chapter six. The book raises questions for history, psychology, and sociology departments as it provides an intriguing read for students in every discipline.

And here is a review of “Uniformly Undeserved”

Corbett, P. Scott. Uniformly Undeserved. Los Angeles and Kansas City: Dapshow Publishers/The Heritage Group, 2022.

REMEMBRANCE

In some ways, P. Scott Corbett’s book Uniformly Underserved is a book of remembrance; in some ways Uniformly Underserved is breaking news. Although many of the events that occurred during World War II are kept alive in the minds of people from the United States through movies, education, and the History Channel, Corbett’s latest literary offering tells an often forgotten or perhaps unknown story of the fate of Japanese immigrants during the war.

Uniformly Undeserved narrates the adventures of the Takara and Jahana families as the family patriarchs—Morio and Yo—make their way from Okinawa via Hawai’i to Santa Monica, California. Corbett’s style of storytelling brings the struggles, frustrations, and disillusionments with interpretations of the U.S. Constitution experienced by Japanese immigrants to readers in a manner that is not exacting. Readers may not be familiar with U.S. efforts to stymie the flow of immigrants through legislation, violence, and exclusionary practices promulgated by citizens, making Uniformly an important means of digging deeper into the American psyche. Eiji, Saburo, and Aimi find that although they are native-born and are as American as apple pie and cowboys, WWII creates a hostile environment forcing them into unanticipated circumstances.

Readers will find two familiar and relatable themes in Uniformly. First, a cowboy theme threads through the entire book; follow the cowboy hat—It speaks volumes about just how American Eiji and Saburo are. Readers can also relate to the Takaras and the Jahanas as they pool their meager resources and engage in the pursuit of capitalism. Ride the wave with these two families as they first crescendo to success and a bright future only to be wiped out through relocation and a devastating war. Corbett captures the tenacity and the pragmatism of Japanese Americans in this book which all immigrants—whether past or present—understand.  

There are many somber scenes in this book, but there are also many light-hearted moments. In some ways this book is a regional history in that SoCal residents will find many familiar landmarks giving them a sense of immediacy. Regardless of geographical location, many readers will be taken back to nostalgic places through movie references and history.

By the end of the book, prepare to perform a deep bow of contrition for the way Japanese Americans were treated during WWII. Also be ready to stand up and salute this “land of opportunity,” and remember we were, or are all immigrants to this continent.  Be prepared to grab a hanky to dry your eyes.