Amy Sumoto's Characterization
Amy Sumoto, the protagonist of The War Between the Classes, is introduced as a 17-year-old Japanese-American girl navigating the complexities of her dual cultural identity. The novel, written by Gloria D. Miklowitz, uses Amy's first-person narration to explore themes of racial and economic prejudice.
Definition: First-person narrator - A storytelling technique where the main character tells the story from their perspective, allowing readers to experience events through their eyes.
Amy is described as a bright, popular, and smart girl with long straight hair, almond-shaped eyes, and tall slender legs. Her given name, Emiko, reflects her Japanese heritage, while her use of "Amy" represents her American identity.
Example: Amy's physical description: "long straight hair (pg. 7, line 5-6), almond-shaped eyes (p.7, line 8), and tall slender legs (p.7, l.13)"
Growing up in a multi-cultural middle-class neighborhood, Amy faces the challenge of balancing her parents' traditional Japanese values with her American lifestyle. This conflict is exemplified by her relationship with Adam, a wealthy white boy, which causes tension with her parents.
Highlight: Amy's relationship with Adam represents the broader theme of interracial relationships and the challenges they face in a multicultural society.
Throughout the novel, Amy undergoes significant character development. Initially portrayed as lacking confidence and trying to please everyone, she gradually becomes more assertive and self-assured. The Color Game, a school project, serves as a turning point in Amy's life, allowing her to develop leadership skills and the courage to express her opinions.
Quote: "Amy can be characterized as a person who gradually wins her confidence throughout the book from beginning to end!"
Amy's ability to understand and empathize with people from different backgrounds, particularly those of lower social status in the Color Game, demonstrates her growing maturity and social awareness. This quality sets her apart from some of her peers who struggle to see beyond their assigned social roles.
Highlight: Amy's decision to try and unite all participants in the Color Game showcases her emerging leadership skills and desire for social equality.
In conclusion, Amy Sumoto's character in The War Between the Classes serves as a lens through which readers can explore issues of cultural identity, interracial relationships, and social prejudices. Her journey from a conflicted teenager to a confident young woman reflects the broader themes of personal growth and overcoming societal barriers present in the novel.
