20 best books on the japanese internment camps – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Looking to delve into the history and personal stories of the Japanese internment camps during World War II? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about the Japanese internment camps that will take you on a journey through this dark chapter of American history. From firsthand accounts to comprehensive analyses, these books offer valuable insights and shed light on the experiences of those affected. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, these Japanese internment camps books are a must-read!


When the Emperor Was Divine

by Julie Otsuka

When the Emperor Was Divine is a powerful and haunting book on the Japanese internment camps during World War II. Julie Otsuka’s novel takes readers on a journey through the lives of a Japanese-American family as they are forcibly removed from their home and sent to live in the desolate camps. Through sparse and poetic prose, Otsuka skillfully captures the loss, fear, and resilience of her characters as they navigate the harsh realities of internment. This book about the Japanese internment camps sheds light on a dark chapter in American history, reminding us of the importance of remembering and learning from the past.

Farewell to Manzanar

by Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston and James D. Houston

Farewell to Manzanar is a captivating memoir that delves into the heartbreaking and harrowing experiences of Japanese Americans during World War II. Co-authored by Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston and James D. Houston, this poignant book sheds light on the dark chapter of American history known as the Japanese internment camps.

No-No Boy

by John Okada

No-No Boy by John Okada is a powerful and poignant book that delves into the heart-wrenching experiences of Japanese Americans during World War II. Set against the backdrop of the Japanese internment camps, this novel explores the struggles and dilemmas faced by those who were forced to confront their identity and loyalty in a time of great turmoil.

The Buddha in the Attic

by Julie Otsuka

The Buddha in the Attic, written by Julie Otsuka, is a captivating book that delves into the haunting and heart-wrenching history of the Japanese internment camps during World War II.

This mesmerizing novel takes readers on a journey through the lives of a group of Japanese picture brides who traveled to America in search of a better future. Through poetic prose and vivid imagery, Otsuka paints a vivid picture of the hopes and dreams these women carried with them as they embarked on a new life in a foreign land.

However, their dreams are shattered when they are unjustly uprooted from their homes and forced into internment camps following the attack on Pearl Harbor. Otsuka skillfully portrays the fear, confusion, and heartache that these women experience as they are stripped of their freedom and forced to endure harsh living conditions.

The Buddha in the Attic is not merely a book about the Japanese internment camps; it is a poignant exploration of identity, loss, and resilience. Otsuka weaves together the stories of these women, capturing their collective voice and showcasing their strength in the face of adversity.

Through her masterful storytelling, Otsuka sheds light on a dark chapter in American history that is often overlooked. Her powerful narrative serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of empathy and understanding in times of prejudice and discrimination.

With its lyrical prose and unforgettable characters, The Buddha in the Attic is a must-read for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the Japanese internment camps and the lasting impact they had on the lives of countless individuals.

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet

by Jamie Ford

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet is a captivating book that delves into the heart-wrenching history of the Japanese-American internment camps during World War II. This poignant novel explores the profound impact of these camps on individuals and families, weaving together a tale of love, loss, and resilience.

Snow Falling on Cedars

by David Guterson

Snow Falling on Cedars is a captivating novel that delves into the dark history of the Japanese internment camps during World War II. Set on a small island in the Pacific Northwest, this book immerses readers in a web of mystery, love, and prejudice.

Obasan

by Joy Kogawa

Obasan is a powerful and poignant book that delves into the dark history of the Japanese internment camps during World War II. Set in Canada, this novel navigates the experiences of the Japanese-Canadian community through the eyes of Naomi Nakane, a young woman who grapples with her identity and the trauma inflicted upon her family.

The Train to Crystal City

by Jan Jarboe Russell

Discover the hidden history of one of America’s darkest chapters in “The Train to Crystal City” by Jan Jarboe Russell. This captivating book delves deep into the shadows of the Japanese internment camps during World War II, shedding light on a forgotten part of our nation’s past. Russell’s meticulous research and powerful storytelling bring to life the untold stories of the thousands of Japanese and German immigrants who were unjustly imprisoned in Crystal City, Texas. From the heart-wrenching family separations to the struggles for survival and the courage of those who fought for justice, this book is a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Prepare to be moved, outraged, and enlightened as you embark on this eye-opening journey through the Japanese internment camps.

The Reluctant Fundamentalist

by Mohsin Hamid

The Reluctant Fundamentalist by Mohsin Hamid is a riveting tale that delves into the complex world of identity, belonging, and the consequences of prejudice. Set against the backdrop of post 9/11 America, this thought-provoking novel offers a unique perspective on the experience of a Pakistani man named Changez, who finds himself caught between two worlds.

As we follow Changez’s journey, we witness his transformation from a promising Wall Street analyst to a reluctant fundamentalist. Through his narration, we are transported to the bustling streets of Lahore, Pakistan, where Changez recounts his encounters with an American stranger in a café. This encounter serves as a catalyst for Changez to reflect on his past, his aspirations, and the events that led him to question his place in a society that has become increasingly suspicious of people like him.

Hamid’s masterful storytelling skillfully weaves together themes of love, loss, and the search for identity. Through Changez’s narrative, we gain insight into the challenges faced by those who are judged solely based on their appearance or cultural background. The author’s powerful prose and vivid descriptions invite readers to empathize with Changez’s struggles and to question their own preconceived notions.

The Reluctant Fundamentalist is not simply a book about the Japanese internment camps, but a profound exploration of the human condition and the complexities of our modern world. It challenges readers to examine their own biases and to consider the impact of discrimination on individuals and societies at large. Hamid’s ability to tackle such weighty subjects with grace and nuance is a testament to his skill as a writer.

Whether you are seeking a thought-provoking read that will leave you pondering long after you turn the final page, or simply wish to immerse yourself in a captivating tale that transcends borders, The Reluctant Fundamentalist is a must-read. Prepare to be captivated by the powerful storytelling and profound themes that lie within its pages.

The Girl Who Wrote in Silk

by Kelli Estes

Discover the hidden stories of resilience and redemption in the captivating novel, The Girl Who Wrote in Silk by Kelli Estes. Set against the backdrop of the Japanese internment camps, this mesmerizing tale weaves together past and present, unveiling the untold stories of those who endured unimaginable hardships.

Within the delicate threads of a silk sleeve, a young Chinese woman named Mei Ling etches her heartbreaking tale of love and loss. Her voice, silenced by the horrors of the internment, speaks volumes as her story is uncovered by a modern-day woman named Inara. Drawn to her family’s forgotten past, Inara embarks on a journey of self-discovery, unraveling the secrets woven within the fabric of her ancestors.

As the past and present collide, The Girl Who Wrote in Silk explores themes of identity, resilience, and the power of storytelling. Estes masterfully transports readers to a time when prejudice and fear reigned, forcing innocent lives into the shadows. Through her vivid prose and heartfelt characters, she sheds light on a dark chapter of history, reminding us of the strength and endurance of the human spirit.

Immerse yourself in this poignant and powerful novel that unveils the hidden truths of the Japanese internment camps. The Girl Who Wrote in Silk is a compelling journey that will leave you breathless and inspired.

The Last Cherry Blossom

by Kathleen Burkinshaw

The Last Cherry Blossom is a captivating book about the Japanese internment camps during World War II. Set in Hiroshima, Japan, this powerful story sheds light on the devastating effects of war on innocent lives. Through the eyes of young Yuriko, the reader is transported into a world filled with fear, loss, and resilience. This poignant tale explores the themes of family, friendship, and the enduring power of hope. With beautiful prose and heartfelt storytelling, The Last Cherry Blossom is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the untold stories of the Japanese internment camps.

The Invisible Thread

by Yoshiko Uchida

The Invisible Thread is a captivating book that sheds light on a dark chapter in American history – the Japanese internment camps. This poignant story takes readers on a journey through the lives of Japanese Americans during World War II, revealing the hardships, resilience, and the power of human connections. Through the eyes of protagonist Yoshiko Uchida, we witness the injustices and discrimination faced by Japanese Americans, as well as their unwavering spirit and determination to find hope in the midst of adversity. This remarkable book explores the invisible thread that connects us all, reminding us of the importance of empathy, understanding, and the strength of the human spirit.

Impounded: Dorothea Lange and the Censored Images of Japanese American Internment

by Linda Gordon and Gary Y. Okihiro

Impounded: Dorothea Lange and the Censored Images of Japanese American Internment is a captivating book that delves into the haunting history of the Japanese internment camps during World War II. Written by Linda Gordon and Gary Y. Okihiro, this remarkable piece of literature sheds light on a dark chapter in American history that has been largely overlooked.

Through the lens of renowned photographer Dorothea Lange, the authors bring to life the stories of the thousands of Japanese Americans who were forcibly removed from their homes and placed in internment camps. Lange’s powerful images, many of which were censored and hidden from the public eye, provide a glimpse into the harsh reality faced by these individuals during their unjust confinement.

This book not only explores the experiences of those interned, but also delves into the broader context of racism, xenophobia, and wartime hysteria that led to the establishment of these camps. Gordon and Okihiro skillfully analyze the political and social climate of the time, offering a comprehensive understanding of the factors that fueled this dark chapter in American history.

The authors’ meticulous research and thoughtful analysis make Impounded an essential read for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the Japanese internment camps. By examining Lange’s photographs and the stories they tell, this book brings to light the resilience, strength, and humanity of those who endured such immense hardship.

Impounded: Dorothea Lange and the Censored Images of Japanese American Internment is not just a book about the Japanese internment camps; it is a powerful testament to the importance of remembering and learning from our past. It serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of prejudice and discrimination, and the urgent need to ensure that such injustices are never repeated.

The Art of Gaman: Arts and Crafts from the Japanese American Internment Camps 1942-1946

by Delphine Hirasuna

The Art of Gaman: Arts and Crafts from the Japanese American Internment Camps 1942-1946 is a remarkable book that sheds light on a little-known aspect of history. Delphine Hirasuna takes us on a journey through the Japanese American internment camps during World War II, revealing the resilience and creativity of those who were unjustly incarcerated.

This captivating book showcases the incredible arts and crafts that were produced within the camps. From intricate wood carvings to beautiful paintings and delicate pottery, the pieces featured in The Art of Gaman are a testament to the human spirit’s ability to find solace and expression even in the most challenging of circumstances.

Hirasuna’s storytelling transports us back in time, allowing us to glimpse into the lives of these individuals who faced discrimination and hardship. Through their art, we witness their determination to preserve their cultural heritage and find moments of beauty amidst the harsh realities of camp life.

The Art of Gaman not only provides a visual feast of stunning artwork, but it also offers a deeper understanding of the Japanese American internment camps. Through interviews, photographs, and personal anecdotes, Hirasuna brings to life the stories of those who lived through this dark chapter in American history.

This book is a poignant reminder of the power of art to heal, inspire, and defy injustice. It serves as a tribute to the resilience and creativity of those who were unjustly imprisoned, and a call to remember and learn from the past.

Only What We Could Carry: The Japanese American Internment Experience

by Lawson Fusao Inada

Only What We Could Carry: The Japanese American Internment Experience by Lawson Fusao Inada is a captivating book that delves into the dark chapter of American history known as the Japanese American internment camps. This powerful book exposes the harsh realities faced by thousands of innocent Japanese Americans during World War II.

Through vivid storytelling and poignant personal accounts, Inada brings to life the experiences of those who were forcibly removed from their homes and unjustly incarcerated in these camps. He uncovers the pain, fear, and resilience of a community torn apart by prejudice and discrimination.

With meticulous research and heartfelt prose, Inada sheds light on a piece of history that is often overlooked or forgotten. He explores the profound impact that these camps had on families, individuals, and the nation as a whole.

Only What We Could Carry is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of this period in American history. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up against injustice and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

The Children of Topaz: The Story of a Japanese-American Internment Camp

by Michael O. Tunnell

The Children of Topaz is a compelling and eye-opening book about the dark chapter in American history known as the Japanese-American internment camps. Written by Michael O. Tunnell, this poignant account shines a light on the experiences of the children who were forced to endure the hardships and injustices of this tragic period.

Years of Infamy: The Untold Story of America’s Concentration Camps

by Michi Nishiura Weglyn

Years of Infamy: The Untold Story of America’s Concentration Camps by Michi Nishiura Weglyn is a captivating and eye-opening book on the Japanese internment camps. This thought-provoking piece of non-fiction delves into a dark chapter of American history that is often overlooked or forgotten.

Weglyn’s book about the Japanese internment camps sheds light on the experiences of Japanese-Americans during World War II, when they were unjustly uprooted from their homes and imprisoned in remote camps across the country. Through meticulous research and personal anecdotes, the author paints a vivid picture of the hardships, discrimination, and loss that these innocent people faced.

What sets this Japanese internment camps book apart is Weglyn’s unique perspective as a Japanese-American herself. Having experienced the internment firsthand, she brings a deep sense of authenticity and empathy to her storytelling. Her powerful words serve as a powerful reminder of the devastating consequences of fear and prejudice.

Years of Infamy is an important read for anyone seeking to understand a dark period in American history. It challenges us to confront the past, acknowledge the mistakes made, and strive for a more inclusive and just society. This book on the Japanese internment camps is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a call for justice and compassion.

Impounded: Dorothea Lange and the Censored Images of Japanese American Internment

by Linda Gordon and Gary Y. Okihiro

Impounded: Dorothea Lange and the Censored Images of Japanese American Internment is a captivating book on the Japanese American internment camps during World War II. Written by Linda Gordon and Gary Y. Okihiro, this powerful book sheds light on a dark chapter in American history.

This poignant book about the Japanese internment camps explores the work of renowned photographer Dorothea Lange, who captured the experiences of Japanese Americans as they were forcibly removed from their homes and incarcerated in camps. Through her lens, Lange documented the loss, fear, and resilience of these individuals, providing a visual narrative that the government initially censored.

The Japanese internment camps book delves into the censorship of Lange’s photographs, revealing the government’s attempts to control the narrative and downplay the harsh realities of the camps. Gordon and Okihiro’s meticulous research uncovers the extent of this censorship, highlighting the struggle to suppress the truth and perpetuate a false narrative of the internment camps.

With compelling storytelling and a wealth of historical evidence, Impounded challenges the widely accepted narrative of the Japanese American internment camps. It offers a critical examination of the government’s actions and the lasting impact on the lives of those who were unjustly incarcerated.

This book on the Japanese internment camps is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding this dark period of American history. It provides a thought-provoking exploration of the power of visual storytelling, the suppression of truth, and the resilience of those affected by the internment camps.

The Train to Crystal City

by Jan Jarboe Russell

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the gripping world of wartime America with Jan Jarboe Russell’s extraordinary book on the Japanese internment camps. In “The Train to Crystal City,” Russell delivers a powerful and eye-opening account of a little-known chapter in American history.

Unveiling the untold stories of families torn apart and lives forever changed, this book about the Japanese internment camps sheds light on a dark period of injustice and discrimination. Russell skillfully weaves together personal narratives and historical research to paint a vivid and heart-wrenching picture of the struggles faced by Japanese Americans during World War II.

With meticulous attention to detail, Russell takes readers on a journey aboard the train to Crystal City, a little-known internment camp in Texas. Through the eyes of the families who were forcibly relocated, we witness the hardships endured, the resilience displayed, and the lasting impact of this dark chapter in American history.

The Japanese internment camps book is a testament to the power of human resilience and the importance of remembering the past. Russell’s storytelling prowess and her ability to bring historical events to life make this a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of war, prejudice, and the enduring spirit of the human soul.

Prepare to be moved, educated, and inspired as you delve into the pages of “The Train to Crystal City” and uncover the hidden truths of the Japanese internment camps.

The Reluctant Fundamentalist

by Mohsin Hamid

The Reluctant Fundamentalist by Mohsin Hamid is a captivating novel that delves into the complex aftermath of the September 11 attacks. Set in the bustling city of Lahore, Pakistan, the story follows the life of Changez, a highly intelligent and ambitious young man who finds himself torn between his American dream and his Pakistani identity.

As Changez narrates his experiences to an unnamed American man in a Lahore café, the book takes on a thought-provoking and introspective tone. Through his words, we witness the transformation of a bright-eyed and enthusiastic Princeton graduate into someone grappling with feelings of disillusionment, anger, and a sense of displacement.

The novel skillfully explores themes of identity, alienation, and the consequences of prejudice. It is not simply a book about the Japanese internment camps, but rather a story that echoes the struggles faced by individuals caught between two cultures, two worlds, and two conflicting ideologies.

Hamid’s writing is both evocative and immersive, painting a vivid picture of both Lahore and the protagonist’s experiences in America. His use of language is eloquent yet accessible, allowing readers to become fully engrossed in Changez’s journey and the questions it raises about the nature of belonging and the impact of global events on individual lives.

The Reluctant Fundamentalist is a deeply thought-provoking and timely exploration of the complexities of identity and the consequences of societal divisions. By delving into the struggles of its protagonist, it sheds light on the universal human experiences of longing for acceptance, grappling with cultural clashes, and searching for a sense of purpose.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about the Japanese internment camps offer a powerful and poignant glimpse into a dark chapter of American history. From personal memoirs to historical accounts, these books provide invaluable insight and shed light on the experiences of those who endured the hardships and injustices of internment. Whether you are a history buff, a student, or simply curious about this often overlooked period, these books are a must-read. Explore the stories, emotions, and resilience of those affected by the internment camps through these remarkable literary works.