Publisher's Synopsis
Japan and the United States have entirely different histories and cultures, yet the two countries have evolved from a brutal war based in hatred and misunderstanding to one of peaceful and harmonious relations. How did this happen?
Peace can only be established where there is understanding. This book outlines the history and culture of two countries that evolved entirely differently, yet eventually found common ground. Most Americans know little about Japanese culture or history, and most Japanese only know America through entertainment programs, movies, and corporate media, which does not reflect the views of a significant proportion of Americans. The two authors are not historians. Ken comes from a working class family from Detroit. Nobu is a botanist and professor at a Japanese university, so we see things from different perspectives. This approach is much more accessible to the general reader than "expert" opinions, which often just reflect government or official narratives. Common Bonds and Cultural Traditions of the People of the US and Japan offers a unique perspective outlines how understanding and acceptance of another culture can forge the bonds of peace and understanding that are so necessary in this era of contention and discord.
