Flashlight

The Kang family’s transit to Japan is turbulent. As soon as they arrive, Louisa feels conscious of her multiple heritage. She forces herself to do things that will avoid drawing attention, like walking with her head down. She also becomes irritated with Anne, who is absent-minded throughout their initial tour of Tokyo.

All three are underwhelmed by their derelict apartment in the town where they’ll be living. Serk defends the residence by pointing out they have more rooms that the average Japanese household.

Louisa goes to Japanese school instead of homeschooling via an American curriculum. Although she gets accustomed to life in town, many people continue to exoticize her as an American girl. Louisa becomes more proficient in Japanese, though this does little to stop her from feeling out of place.

Anne, meanwhile, shows little interest in leaving the house. One night, Serk announces they will go on a day trip to a seaside town to visit an old friend. He and Louisa end up going without Anne, who is ill. Serk’s friend, Mrs. Ishida (Soonja’s married name), is younger than Louisa expected. They go for a walk on the beach so that Serk and Mrs. Ishida can talk in private.