This is so much more than a wartime romance. It’s a love story that changed Australian history.
Nobuko ‘Cherry’ Sakuramoto was a survivor of the devastating Hiroshima bomb. She was just sixteen when she met Australian soldier Don Parker, while he was posted in Japan as part of the post-war rebuilding efforts.
Written by Don and Cherry’s granddaughter, accomplished screenwriter Alli Parker, At the Foot of the Cherry Tree is a true story of forbidden love.
But it is the historical significance of Don’s epic struggle to bring his wife and children back to Australia that makes this book a standout.
Under the Foot of the Cherry Tree shines a light on the devastating ramifications of the White Australia Policy, a policy that remained in effect as recently as 1974. Many Japanese women were abandoned by their Aussie soldier boyfriends, pregnant and unable to support themselves, shunned by their own families for carrying the babies of ex-enemy soldiers.
By contrast, Gordon Parker’s devotion, dedication and determination to bring his wife and children home is truly inspiring.
While Cherry was the first war bride to migrate to Australia, Gordon’s unrelenting campaign changed Australia’s immigration policy and opened the door for other Japanese war brides to come to Australia.
One of the most touching aspects of this story is the way Gordon’s family come to wholeheartedly love and embrace Cherry, despite being initially opposed to their relationship. It’s a beautiful example of how love, acceptance and understanding can overcome racism and fear.
