Customer Reviews

Out of the Frying Pan

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Bill Hosokawa remind us that history must not repeat itself nor be forgotten; that is, placing Japanese Americans in concentration camps during the out break of World War II. "Out of the Frying Pan" explains and exemplifies the true meaning of being an American of Japanese descent, while overcoming racial discrimination in the land of the free. This book must be read by those who believe in the true colors of red, white and blue.

As the son of the author, it is impossible to write an objective review. The author is a retired editor with the Denver Post and a member of the Journalism Hall of Fame. He has written several books on the history of the Japanese Americans in the U.S. This book brings together his stories, perceptions and insights around his experiences prior to and after World War II. It is a "quick read" written in the concise style of a journalist. It is not a victim's story nor a hero's story. It is reporting of little-known events with the personal insights of the author.

Mr. Hosokawa is a brilliant writer who had every reason to present a bitter portrayal of his forced internment experience at a relocation center where US citizens of Japanese ancestry were relocated away from the west coast following the bombing of Pearl Harbor and the entry of the US into WWII. Instead Mr. Hosokawa chose to take the "high road" and stick to an honest and unbiased appraisal of the situation. His is a very interesting and readable autobiography that tells of his advancement in the field of journalism and the effect his internment had on his colorful and successful career. The second half of the book includes excerpt from some of his editorials.