Song of the Pearl and Oyster - by Patty S Duffy (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Nora is a surprise guest at her mother's 75th birthday party, and she's not sure her mother will be happy about it. Nora was sent away from home when she was six years old. Song of the Pearl and Oyster is based on real events following three generations of women. Beginning in 1938 with a Japanese pearl diver and a dream, the narrative charts a path to America's internment camps, post-war change, and the journey of a lonely, young girl. When young Nora overhears her grandmother speaking bitterly about her Japanese father in California, she makes a decision. She'll leave the woman's sharp-tongued abuse and run away to find him with only their shared last name to guide her. Nora dreams that her violin will help her find a place in a culture that has no place for her.

In Fountain Valley, Nora reconnects with James from her school days. Just when she begins to see a future with James, her quirky new friends, and a career, her one-of-a-kind sable violin is stolen. When James accepts a promising job in New York, Nora struggles with the decision to follow her ambitions, or his. For readers who have been moved by the power of music, this book is for you.

Review Quotes

A powerful and compelling tale of loneliness, love, and loss...In Song of the Pearl and Oyster...a sense of justice comes through...friendships are explored.

Susan P.

Song of the Pearl and Oyster is a story of a young woman's search for belonging that unifies and brings people together. The story of Nora, born of two cultures, is based on real events, following three generations of women, spanning 1938 -1990. You come to celebrate Nora's discovering strength, solace, and joy through the love of friends, family, and music. The characters are very real and easy to relate to, through dangerous and sad times as well as joyful and fulfilling ones.

Carole Y.

The author has written a compelling historical fiction about an Asian American young woman Nora, who struggles to overcome many obstacles in her life. Her desire to reconnect with long lost family drives her to find her elderly father... Nora is able to survive and thrive due to her perseverance, sense of integrity, and a supportive group of like-minded friends. Despite little support very early in her life, Nora finds the power of music through her violin.

Ralph E.