Book description
"Sentimental, heartfelt....the exploration of Henry's changing relationship with his family and with Keiko will keep most readers turning pages...A timely debut that not only reminds readers of a shameful episode in American history, but cautions us to examine the present and take heed we don't repeat those injustices."-- Kirkus Reviews "A tender and satisfying novel set in a time and a place lost forever, Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet gives us a glimpse of the damage that is caused by war--not the sweeping damage of the battlefield, but the cold, cruel damage to the hearts and humanity of individual people. Especially relevant in today's world, this is a beautifully written book that will make you think. And, more importantly, it will make you feel." -- Garth Stein, New York Times bestselling author of The Art of Racing in the Rain "Jamie Ford's first novel explores the age-old conflicts between father and son, the beauty and sadness of what happened to Japanese Americans in the Seattle area during World War II, and the depths and longing of deep-heart love. An impressive, bitter, and sweet debut." -- Lisa See, bestselling author of Snow Flower and the Secret Fan In the opening pages of Jamie Ford's stunning debut novel, Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet, Henry Lee comes upon a crowd gathered outside the Panama Hotel, once the gateway to Seattle's Japantown. It has been boarded up for decades, but now the new owner has made an incredible discovery: the belongings of Japanese families, left when they were rounded up and sent to internment camps during World War II. As Henry looks on, the owner opens a Japanese parasol. This simple act takes old Henry Lee back to the 1940s, at the height of the war, when young Henry's world is a jumble of confusion and excitement, and to his father, who is obsessed with the war in China and having Henry grow up American. While "scholarshipping" at the exclusive Rainier Elementary, where the white kids ignore him, Henry meets Keiko Okabe, a young Japanese American student. Amid the chaos of blackouts, curfews, and FBI raids, Henry and Keiko forge a bond of friendship-and innocent love-that transcends the long-standing prejudices of their Old World ancestors. And after Keiko and her family are swept up in the evacuations to the internment camps, she and Henry are left only with the hope that the war will end, and that their promise to each other will be kept. Forty years later, Henry Lee is certain that the parasol belonged to Keiko. In the hotel's dark dusty basement he begins looking for signs of the Okabe family's belongings and for a long-lost object whose value he cannot begin to measure. Now a widower, Henry is still trying to find his voice-words that might explain the actions of his nationalistic father; words that might bridge the gap between him and his modern, Chinese American son; words that might help him confront the choices he made many years ago. Set during one of the most conflicted and volatile times in American history, Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet is an extraordinary story of commitment and enduring hope. In Henry and Keiko, Jamie Ford has created an unforgettable duo whose story teaches us of the power of forgiveness and the human heart. BONUS: This edition contains a Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet discussion guide and an excerpt from Jamie Ford's Love and Other Consolation Prizes.
Sir Squire
🌟 Who needs a dull commute when you can embark on literary journeys with this app? 🚗📖 The attention to detail is commendable. Artwork and metadata are sorted automatically. Downloading audiobooks is a breeze, thanks to the variety of options available. The app's compatibility with CarPlay adds an extra layer of convenience, especially during road trips.
Universe Bullet
Audiobooks have become my companions during long hours of household chores. ListenBook's compatibility with various formats has made it my go-to app for all audio content. I'm hooked on this app's ability to transform my ordinary moments into exciting opportunities for learning. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a great way to spread the joy of reading.
Jo Jo Spooky
The sleek design and easy navigation are visually pleasing and user-friendly. ListenBook's customizable features, from playback speed to audio filters, cater to every audiobook lover's preferences. ListenBook's seamless audio player has turned my listening sessions into moments of pure delight. Automated metadata extraction is a time-saver. My library is so organized now. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has significantly improved the audio quality of my recordings.
B@d B0y
Seamless integration with all my devices and flawless synchronization – top-notch. Configurable auto-rewind is genius. No more confusion when I pause and resume. ListenBook has become an essential part of my day, enhancing my commute and allowing me to enjoy audiobooks like never before.
Zesty Dragon
No more fighting over the radio during family trips – we're all hooked on audiobooks now. Streamlined audiobook integration – this app's usability is truly impressive.
Forger
With this app, reading has become an integral part of my daily routine. ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats ensures that my audiobook collection is always accessible. ListenBook's user-friendly interface and quick controls make it my preferred choice for audiobook enjoyment.
Sherm
Audiobooks have become a source of inspiration and motivation, thanks to this app. ListenBook has made my audiobook journey effortless, turning every moment into an escape. ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch adds a new level of convenience to my audiobook journey.
ThoughtTraveler
This app is a must-have for any book lover on the go – it's my daily companion. With this app, I can enjoy my favorite stories while traveling, making my journeys more delightful. I'm grateful for this app – it's made reading a part of my everyday life.
Mallow Man
ListenBook's features are a bookworm's dream come true – from chapters to bookmarks, it's got everything. ListenBook's user-friendly interface and seamless playback have made it my go-to app. ListenBook's compatibility with various audio formats is impressive. From MP3 to FLAC, it handles them all flawlessly. The interface is sleek and user-friendly. Makes navigating through chapters a breeze. I'm blown away by the powerful audio downloading options. So versatile!
Waylay Dave
ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats makes it a versatile and essential app for audiobook enthusiasts. ListenBook Pro is worth every penny. The unlimited audiobook length is a dream come true.
InfinityInsight
The narrator's voices are so soothing – a perfect way to unwind after a stressful day. ListenBook's basic audio filters allow me to fine-tune the audio playback to suit my preferences. ListenBook's library organization features have transformed my chaotic audiobook collection into an organized masterpiece. Shuffle playback is a fun feature. It keeps me engaged with my audiobooks.
Moonflower
This app has reignited my love for literature and made it a part of my everyday life. This app's ease of use has made reading an integral part of my everyday life. ListenBook's intuitive layout and quick access to chapters make audiobook navigation a breeze. I'm impressed by the extensive statistics feature, allowing me to track my audiobook consumption over time.
Tart Voodoo
Audiobooks have become my escape from reality – a journey into captivating worlds. Looping playback of a single track helps me master difficult concepts. So helpful! Library organization and book groups make managing my audiobook collection a breeze.
Stud Buster
With ListenBook, my audio content is organized, accessible, and ready to inspire me. This app has become my go-to for audiobooks, adding a layer of convenience and enjoyment to my days. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magic wand that transforms even the noisiest environments into cozy listening spaces.
Frenzy
I'm hooked on ListenBook's silky-smooth playback, making my audio sessions truly enjoyable. 📱 My pocket-sized library – this app makes reading accessible anytime, anywhere! 📚📱 ListenBook has redefined how I enjoy audiobooks. It's an essential tool for my literary pursuits. ListenBook has united my love for audiobooks with my passion for learning. What a brilliant app!
Mr. Spy
The drag-and-drop download feature on ListenBook is incredibly convenient – no more complicated processes. 🎶 Forget background music, I've got enchanting stories to accompany my chores! 🎵📚 Library organization is brilliant. No more cluttered audiobook collection.
Fire Sass
Organization made simple – this app's efficient management of my audiobook collection ensures that every story is just a tap away. Convenience at its finest. 📖📱 ListenBook's dedication to providing an exceptional listening experience shines through in every aspect of the app. ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature is a time-saving convenience that I greatly appreciate. No more interruptions – the auto-rewind feature is a genius solution for seamless listening.
Gumby Train
With ListenBook, I can enjoy my audiobooks with enhanced sound quality and personalized settings. The speed adjustment feature is my secret weapon for studying complex materials.
Candy Butcher
With a vast genre selection, I've broadened my horizons and explored new topics. Bookmarking on ListenBook makes it easy to pick up where I left off – no more searching for my spot! This app has made long flights and road trips so much more enjoyable. Audiobook joy made simple – this app's ease of use is a true marvel. Quick access to chapters and controls makes ListenBook a joy to use. It's a seamless experience.
Polar Bee
Listening to audiobooks has become my daily ritual for relaxation and escape. The range of audio formats supported is incredible. No need to worry about file conversion.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience