The Street of a Thousand Blossoms by Gail Tsukiyama

What a wonderful story following a few families in Tokyo, Japan before, during and after the bombing in WW II.  To watch the vibrancy and love of the area to the total devastation and then move on the the re-birth was amazing.  Families struggled, but were able to hold onto their dreams.  They dealt with the loss in different ways, but many came back out on top.  There was a true sense of finding yourself and being true to yourself, the glass is half full attitude.  Tsukiyama is an amazing author that paints a beautiful picture.  You really feel a part of the story and want to be there with these families through their struggles and triumphs.  I am fascinated with the Japanese culture in the 1800's and 1900's and Tsukiyama makes me want to learn more and more about that time.  Wonderful book.