On Being Yukiko - Characters

Yukiko

Yukiko, who also goes by her English name Emma, is a complex and relatable protagonist. At the beginning of the story, she is a 12-year-old girl struggling with questions about her identity. She is "only a quarter Japanese" and doesn't look particularly Japanese, so she wonders why she has a Japanese name. She is unsure what it means to be Japanese Canadian and feels disconnected from her Japanese heritage.  

Yukiko's journey of self-discovery begins when she visits her grandmother (Ba-chan). Ba-chan tells her the story of her great-great-grandmother, Maki, who came to Canada as a picture bride at the turn of the 20th century. Maki's story is one of perseverance and sacrifice, and it inspires Yukiko to learn more about her Japanese Canadian heritage.  

As Yukiko listens to Ba-chan's stories, she begins to see herself and her family in a new light. She learns about the challenges and discrimination that Japanese Canadians faced in the past, but she also learns about their resilience and strength. She starts to appreciate her Japanese name and the cultural traditions that have been passed down through her family.  

By the end of the story, Yukiko has embraced her Japanese Canadian identity. She is proud of her heritage and excited to learn more about it. She realises that being Japanese Canadian is not about being a certain percentage Japanese, but about being part of a community with a rich history and culture.  

Key Character Traits:

• Inquisitive: Yukiko is curious about her identity and heritage. She asks her family members many questions about their background and experiences.  

• Thoughtful: Yukiko reflects on her family's stories and tries to understand what they mean for her own life.  

• Open-minded: Yukiko is willing to learn new things about her heritage and culture. She doesn't shy away from difficult topics like racism and discrimination.  

• Proud: By the end of the story, Yukiko is proud to be Japanese Canadian. She embraces her heritage and wants to share it with others.  

Symbolism:

• Yukiko's Japanese name: Represents her connection to her heritage and her journey to embrace her identity.  

• Maki's story: Symbolises the strength and resilience of Japanese Canadians who overcame adversity.  

• The blending of two art styles: Reflects the merging of Japanese and Canadian cultures in Yukiko's identity.  

Yukiko's journey is a reminder that identity is not always simple or straightforward. It can be a complex and evolving process, especially for those who come from mixed cultural backgrounds. Yukiko's story is a testament to the power of family history and the importance of embracing one's heritage.

Ba-Chan

Yukiko's grandmother, Ba-chan, is a central figure in the graphic novel. She serves as the bridge between the past and the present, connecting Yukiko to her Japanese Canadian heritage. Ba-chan is a keeper of stories and traditions, and she uses her knowledge to guide Yukiko on her journey of self-discovery.

Ba-chan is portrayed as a warm and loving grandmother. She is patient with Yukiko's questions and eager to share her family's history. She is also a wise and insightful woman, offering Yukiko guidance and support as she explores her identity.

Key Character Traits:

• Storyteller: Ba-chan is a skilled storyteller, captivating Yukiko with tales of her family's past. She brings history to life, making it relevant and meaningful for Yukiko.

• Patient and Understanding: Ba-chan patiently answers Yukiko's questions and gently guides her understanding of her heritage.

• Wise and Insightful: Ba-chan offers Yukiko wisdom and insights into the complexities of identity and belonging.

• Proud of her Heritage: Ba-chan is proud of her Japanese Canadian heritage and wants to pass that pride on to Yukiko.

Symbolism:

• The bridge between the past and the present: Ba-chan connects Yukiko to her ancestors and their experiences, ensuring that their stories and traditions are not forgotten.

• The embodiment of Japanese Canadian culture: Ba-chan represents the resilience and strength of Japanese Canadians who have overcome adversity and maintained their cultural identity.

Ba-chan's role in the story is crucial. She is not only a beloved grandmother but also a mentor and guide for Yukiko. Through her stories and wisdom, Ba-chan helps Yukiko to understand and appreciate her Japanese Canadian heritage, ultimately leading Yukiko to embrace her identity as Yukiko.

Discussion questions

1. How do the interactions between Yukiko and her grandmother in On Being Yukiko shed light on the generational gaps and connections within a Canadian Nikkei family?