Chapter 1-2 Summary
The opening chapters introduce the main characters and setting of The War Between the Classes. Amy Sumoto, the protagonist, prepares for a school dance while reflecting on her family background and relationship with Adam Tarcher.
Amy, whose real name is Emiko, comes from a strict Japanese immigrant family. Her parents, especially her father, are traditional and wary of white Americans. This creates tension as Amy dates Adam, a wealthy white student from an upper-class neighborhood.
Highlight: The contrast between Amy's middle-class Asian immigrant background and Adam's privileged white upbringing is a central theme.
As Amy and Adam drive to the luau, Amy contemplates the social divisions in their school and society at large. She notes how students segregate themselves based on race, gender, and socioeconomic status.
Example: Amy's old friends Juan and Carol belong to ethnic minorities, while Adam's friend Justin displays racist attitudes.
The chapters also touch on family dynamics, particularly the conflict between Amy's father and her brother Hideo. Hideo married an American woman named Sue against his father's wishes, causing ongoing tension.
Quote: "Amy's father, Mr. Sumoto, wanted Hideo to marry a Japanese woman, but Hideo preferred getting married to an American girl, ignoring his father's permission in secret."
These early chapters set the stage for exploring themes of cultural identity, assimilation, and intergenerational conflict throughout the novel.
