No-No Boy - Chapters 1 to 3

Summary of chapters 1 to 3

Ichiro Yamada, a Japanese-American, is returning to his home in Seattle after spending two years in a prison for refusing to fight for America in the war. As he arrives, an old friend, Eto, who did serve in the U.S. army, recognises him as a 'no-no boy' (someone who said 'no' to serving in the military) and insults him.

After facing harassment on the streets, Ichiro arrives home. His dad is happy to see him but his mum seems less thrilled. He also finds out his mum still thinks Japan won the war and plans to move back there, something that frustrates him.

Later, his mum makes him visit family friends where they discuss their beliefs about the war and their love for Japan. This makes Ichiro very uncomfortable, especially when the death of a friend's son, who did fight for America, comes up. He ends the evening arguing with his mum and dad.

The next day, he visits another 'no-no boy', Freddie, who confesses his life has been tough since the war. He invites Ichiro to a poker game with other 'no-no boys'. Ichiro also visits a former professor who assumes he served in the army, making him feel upset and misunderstood.

He later meets another old friend, Kenji, who lost part of his leg in the war. Despite his injury, Kenji remains hopeful about life, something Ichiro finds hard to do.

When he returns home, he finds out his younger brother, Taro, is leaving to join the army, which upsets their parents. Ichiro realises Taro's decision is a result of his own past choices, leaving him feeling guilty and conflicted.

Discussion questions for chapters 1 to 3

1. How does people treating Ichiro badly for not fighting in the war show their thoughts on loyalty during war? Are these thoughts right?

2. Ichiro struggles being both Japanese and American. How does this struggle make him feel alone and angry?

3. Ichiro's mother thinks Japan won the war. What does this show about her feelings and thoughts, and how does it affect her family?

4. Ichiro and Kenji both handle war effects differently. What do their different ways show about how people deal with hard times?