In some ways, P. Scott Corbett’s book Uniformly Undeserved is a book of remembrance; in some ways Uniformly Undeserved is breaking news. Although many of the events that occurred during World War II are kept alive in the minds of people from the United States through movies, education, and the History Channel, Corbett’s latest literary offering tells an often forgotten, or perhaps unknown, story of the fate of Japanese immigrants during the war.
Uniformly Undeserved narrates the adventures of the Takara and Jahana families as the family patriarchs—Morio and Yo—make their way from Okinawa via Hawai’i to Santa Monica, California. Corbett’s engaging style of storytelling and his passion for history bring the struggles, frustrations, and disillusionment with interpretations of the U.S. Constitution experienced by Japanese immigrants straight to the heart of shared humanity. Readers may not be familiar with U.S. efforts to stem the flow of immigrants through legislation, violence, and exclusionary practices promulgated by citizens, making Uniformly an important means of digging deeper into the American psyche. Eiji, Saburo, and Aimi find that although they are native-born and are as American as apple pie and cowboys, WWII creates a hostile environment, that upends their lives.
Readers will find two familiar and relatable themes in Uniformly. First, a cowboy theme threads through the entire book; follow the cowboy hat—it speaks volumes about just how American Eiji and Saburo are. Readers can also relate to the Takaras and the Jahanas as they pool their meager resources and engage in the pursuit of capitalism. Ride the wave with these two families as they first crescendo to success and a bright future only to be wiped out through relocation and a devastating war. Corbett captures the tenacity and the pragmatism of Japanese Americans in this book which all immigrants—whether past or present—understand.
There are many somber scenes in this book, but there are also many light-hearted moments. In some ways this book is a regional history, in that SoCal residents will find many familiar landmarks giving them a sense of immediacy. Regardless of geographical location, many readers will be taken back to nostalgic places through movie references and history.
By the end of the book, prepare to perform a deep bow of contrition for the way Japanese Americans were treated during WWII. Also be ready to stand up and salute this “land of opportunity,” and remember we were, or are all immigrants to this continent. Be prepared to grab a hanky to dry your eyes.
