Themes and Concepts in 'The Buddha in the Attic'

The video discusses 'The Buddha in the Attic' by Juliet Suka, focusing on themes of identity, place, and assimilation. It includes an excerpt read by the author, explores multiculturalism, the American Dream, and power relations. Critical literacy questions and classroom activities are suggested to deepen understanding.

What is the main focus of the novel 'The Buddha in the Attic'?

• The life of a single Japanese woman in America

• The experiences of Japanese picture brides in America

• The history of Japan in the 1900s

• The American Dream for all immigrants

Who is the author of 'The Buddha in the Attic'?

• Yoko Ogawa

• Kazuo Ishiguro

• Haruki Murakami

• Juliet Suka

What is a significant theme explored in the novel?

• The culinary traditions of Japan

• The technological advancements in Japan

• The power dynamics faced by immigrants

• The success of the American Dream

How does the novel depict the concept of assimilation?

• As a complex issue with varied outcomes

• As irrelevant to the story

• As beneficial for all immigrants

• As a straightforward process

What challenge do the picture brides face regarding their names?

• Their names are used to gain power

• Their names are celebrated and respected

• Their names are often changed by others

• Their names are forgotten by their families

What is a critical literacy question raised about the author?

• Why did the author choose a different genre?

• What is the author's experience with the subject?

• How many books has the author written?

• What is the author's favorite character?

Why is the use of first-person plural pronouns significant in the novel?

• It is a common literary technique

• It focuses on a single character's experience

• It highlights the collective experiences of the women

• It makes the narrative confusing

What advice is given to the picture brides about interacting with white people?

• To ignore them completely

• To become friends with them

• To be aggressive and confrontational

• To avoid them and be cautious

What does the novel suggest about the promises made to the picture brides?

• They were always fulfilled

• They were irrelevant to the story

• They were often misleading

• They were only made by other women

How do the picture brides find solace in their new environment?

• By adopting new cultural practices

• By isolating themselves completely

• By forming small ethnic communities

• By returning to Japan