
Linda Gerber's 'Now and Zen' follows Nori Tanaka, a Japanese-American teenager, as she embarks on a study abroad program in Tokyo. Expecting tranquil gardens, Nori is initially overwhelmed by the bustling city and the assumption by locals, including a handsome German student named Erik, that she is a native Japanese speaker and guide. To fit in and impress Erik, Nori begins to pretend she is fully Japanese, quickly realizing the depth of her own cultural ignorance and the challenges of living a lie. The book explores themes of cultural identity, self-acceptance, and the complexities of navigating bicultural heritage, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Japan's modern cities and ancient temples.
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