Speak Okinawa: A Journey of Self-Discovery Through Language and Legacy

About the Book

In "Speak Okinawa," Elizabeth Miki Brina invites readers on a poignant and illuminating journey through her Okinawan heritage, exploring the complexities of identity, language, and the enduring power of familial bonds.

Speak, Okinawa: A Memoir

by Elizabeth Miki Brina

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2134 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	294 pages

FREE

Born and raised in the United States to Okinawan parents, Brina grew up with a fragmented sense of her ancestry. It wasn't until adulthood that she embarked on a quest to reclaim her Okinawan identity and reconnect with her ancestral home.

Through lyrical prose and evocative storytelling, Brina unravels her family's wartime experiences, the suppression of the Okinawan language, and the lingering effects of colonialism. As she navigates the complexities of her own bicultural upbringing, she grapples with the challenges and rewards of learning Uchinaguchi, the Okinawan dialect.

Unveiling a Rich Cultural Tapestry

Brina's memoir paints a vivid picture of Okinawa, a subtropical island paradise that has endured a tumultuous history. She transports readers to the bustling markets of Naha, the tranquil sugar cane fields of Yomitan, and the sacred sites of Shuri Castle.

Along the way, Brina introduces us to a cast of unforgettable characters: her enigmatic grandmother, a fierce survivor of the war; her father, who struggled to find his place between two cultures; and her Okinawan teacher, who becomes a pivotal figure in her linguistic journey.

A Personal Quest and a Universal Resonation

"Speak Okinawa" is not only a personal narrative but also a profound meditation on the human experience. It is a story about the search for identity, the power of language to bridge gaps, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Brina's journey resonates with anyone who has ever felt disconnected from their roots or yearned to reconnect with their ancestral heritage. It is a testament to the transformative power of language, memory, and the bonds that unite us across generations.

Critical Acclaim and Literary Honors

"Speak Okinawa" has garnered widespread critical acclaim since its release. It was named a finalist for the 2021 PEN/Jacqueline Bograd Weld Award for Biography and was featured on NPR's "All Things Considered."

"A beautifully written and deeply moving memoir that explores the complexities of identity, language, and legacy. Elizabeth Miki Brina's journey will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the pull of their ancestral homeland." - Garrett Hongo, author of "Coral Road"

"A powerful and important book that shines a light on the hidden history of Okinawa and the enduring legacy of colonialism. Brina's story is both personal and universal, reminding us of the resilience of the human spirit." - Ruth Ozeki, author of "A Tale for the Time Being"

Free Download Your Copy Today

Embark on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery with Elizabeth Miki Brina's "Speak Okinawa." Free Download your copy today and immerse yourself in a world where language, identity, and legacy intertwine.

"Speak Okinawa: A Memoir of Identity, Language, and Legacy" is available in hardcover, paperback, and e-book formats at all major bookstores and online retailers.

Speak, Okinawa: A Memoir

by Elizabeth Miki Brina

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2134 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	294 pages

FREE