At The Foot Of The Cherry Tree (Alli Parker, HarperCollins)

At the Foot of the Cherry Tree is an impressive debut novel from screenwriter Alli Parker and is inspired by the true story of her grandparents and Australia’s first Japanese war bride. In the aftermath of World War II, Gordon, an Australian teenager eager to fight, and Cherry, a resilient Japanese survivor, defy barriers and embark on a forbidden love that challenges prejudice and leaves an enduring impact on their lives and Australian history. As someone well versed in World War II literature, including novels centred around war brides, I found this novel to be a standout. It offers a unique perspective on the countless micro-aggressions and overt racism experienced by individuals on both sides. The novel portrays the White Australia policy and it was fascinating and disturbing to see it in practice on a micro level. The inclusion of aspects of Japanese culture through the character Nobuko was beautifully done, and the portrayal of Australia in the 1940s and 50s was an interesting aspect of the story. Personally, I appreciate the opportunity to gain historical insights through fiction, and At the Foot of the Cherry Tree delivers both educational value and emotional impact. The connection to real-life individuals adds a wonderful dimension to the novel, reminding readers of the genuine struggles faced by these brave and resilient Australians. 

Books+Publishing reviewer: Anna Loder is a lifelong booklover and runs a podcast and virtual bookclubs. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Category: Reviews