Chan chooses to depict the perspectives of nearly everyone in the Alcantara family. Discuss why she might have decided to exclude Gordon’s perspective.

During the Second World War, Japan waged similar campaigns of occupation against other countries in the Southeast Asian region. Choose one country that was occupied by Japan, research their literature, and discuss a title that explores the war from their perspective.

Fujiwara gains Cecily’s sympathy by sharing his dream of an Asia for Asians. The unspoken part of his dream is that Japan retains control over the other Asian nations. Discuss whether the concept of Asia for Asians is a practical concept. If not, discuss why it might be futile to unite regions under one banner.